take up work

USAGE SUMMARY

"take up work" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used when referring to taking on a new job or task. For example, you could say "After many years of retirement, I decided to take up work again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Create greater incentives to take up work.

The Guardian

Parents need childcare in order for them to take up work and study.

The Guardian

They are sometimes not even skilled enough to take up work at newer, more automated furniture factories.

The Economist

There may not be enough space, or indeed they might have moved away to look for or take up work.

The Guardian

Domestic services, for instance, have contracted because improved education and the opening up of other occupations to women has enabled many to take up work that they prefer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The system is also designed to encourage people to take up work by ensuring that they will always be better off having a job.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Reduce the financial and administrative barriers to taking up work.

The Guardian

He later came back, but took up work as a welder.

Independent

More than 1,220 Loughborough students took up work placements last year – around 400 of them engineering students.

The Guardian

He quit and took up work ironing pants for about 200 rupees a day, or $2.50.

The New York Times

For her younger dorm-mate Zahra, who's taken up work at a bank, it's no big deal.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about employment trends or policies, consider using "take up work" to provide a slightly more formal tone, especially in reports or academic papers. For instance: "Universal credit aims to encourage individuals to "take up work" by ensuring financial benefits."

Common error

Avoid using "take up work" in casual conversation; it can sound overly formal or unnatural. In such contexts, simpler phrases like "start working" or "get a job" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take up work" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the action of commencing employment or engaging in a specific job-related activity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, underscoring its function in conveying the initiation of work.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take up work" is a phrase that means to start a job or begin employment. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English. It's grammatically sound and commonly used in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts, as well as business writing, making it a versatile option. While generally appropriate, remember that alternatives such as "start working" or "get a job" might be preferable in more informal settings. Based on the usage analysis, it is important to consider the audience and context when choosing this phrase. Be mindful of avoiding overuse in casual settings and ensure that the level of formality aligns with the intended tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start working

This alternative directly replaces "take up work" with a more straightforward expression.

start a job

A simple and direct alternative focusing on the commencement of a specific job.

begin employment

This phrase is a more formal way of saying "take up work", emphasizing the commencement of a job.

become employed

A passive voice alternative that shifts focus to the state of being employed.

find employment

This focuses on the process of securing work rather than the act of starting it.

secure a position

Similar to "find employment" but emphasizes the competitive aspect of getting a job.

enter the workforce

This phrase describes joining the working population in general.

embark on a career

This suggests a more long-term and planned entry into a particular profession.

assume a role

Focuses on the responsibility and duties associated with the work.

engage in labor

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "take up work."

FAQs

What does "take up work" mean?

The phrase "take up work" means to start a job or to begin employment. It implies initiating an activity for which one is paid or compensated.

What can I say instead of "take up work"?

You can use alternatives like "start working", "begin employment", or "get a job", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "take up work" or "start to work"?

"Take up work" and "start to work" are both grammatically correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Take up work" suggests starting a new job or employment, while "start to work" is more general and can refer to beginning any task or activity. Therefore it's important to choose the most suitable phrase based on context.

Is "take up work" formal or informal?

"Take up work" tends to be more formal than phrases like "get a job" or "start working". It's often used in official documents, reports, or formal discussions about employment.