undergo

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "undergo" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the process of experiencing or being subjected to something, often a change or a process. Example: "The patient will undergo surgery next week to address the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The former Wales and Liverpool striker took charge of the Crawley in December after John Gregory stepped down to undergo heart surgery.

The Guardian - Sport

If I do undergo transplant surgery, I know it will mean that someone in his or her darkest moments of loss has reached out to a stranger and offered them a future with the gift of their loved one's organs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He has also had to undergo a medical examination.

The Guardian

Under FEC law, anyone employed by a formal campaign must undergo a 120-day waiting period before engaging with independent expenditures.

The Guardian

Liberatore will undergo a traditional reconstruction that usually requires 10 to 12 months of rehabilitation.

The Guardian - Sport

McGuire, who has apologised unreservedly to the AFL star, will face the Racial and Religious Vilification Policy process, usually undertaken by on field players, which will see him undergo a mediation and educational process.

The Guardian - Sport

The merging of two separate shots was intended to depict caring Chinese politicians visiting a sweet old lady, but only gave the internet Orwellian nightmares – and obliged the image-makers to undergo some pretty unflinching Maoist self-criticism.

The Guardian - Arts

The chief source of funding for the Labour party – the trade union political funds – are likely to undergo big cuts as a result of a bill being introduced by the business secretary.

The Guardian

The awards celebrate the best of the British food industry, and in a year when the industry continues to undergo change, OFM editor, Allan Jenkins, encourages readers to nominate those that put food first.

The Guardian

Princess Anne, daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, did not have to undergo gender verification at the 1976 Olympics due to "royal courtesy".

The Guardian - Sport

For now, Labour is due to undergo another leadership contest and as the focus turns to possible candidates questions are already being asked about the willingness of David Miliband – whom younger brother Ed defeated for the leadership in 2005 – to return to Britain and stand again.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "undergo" to clearly indicate that a subject is experiencing a process, procedure, or change, especially when it involves a defined series of steps or treatments. For instance, "The building will undergo renovations" effectively conveys a planned transformation.

Common error

Avoid using "undergo" to describe static conditions or states of being. "The company undergoes success" is incorrect; instead, use "The company is experiencing success" or "The company has achieved success."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "undergo" is as a verb. It indicates that the subject of the sentence will experience or be subjected to something, typically a process, treatment, or change. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undergo" is a versatile verb used to express the experience of a process, treatment, or change. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed across various contexts, particularly in news, formal writing, and scientific reports. While "undergo" is widely accepted, being mindful of its specific implications and avoiding its use with static states will enhance clarity and precision in writing. Consider using alternatives such as "experience" or "go through" for nuanced meanings. By understanding its proper usage and potential alternatives, you can effectively convey the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

experience

Focuses on the subjective aspect of encountering something, shifting from a procedural view.

go through

Emphasizes the process or journey involved, rather than simply the event.

be subjected to

Highlights a lack of control and emphasizes external forces or requirements.

be exposed to

Emphasizes potential influence or impact from the environment or situation.

participate in

Suggests a more active role than simply undergoing something.

undertake

Implies a deliberate choice to begin or engage in an activity or process.

submit to

Focuses on compliance or acceptance, suggesting a potential lack of agency.

endure

Emphasizes resilience and the ability to withstand hardship.

sustain

Highlights the capacity to bear or withstand something, often negative.

be put through

Highlights the difficulty or challenging nature of the process.

FAQs

How do you use "undergo" in a sentence?

"Undergo" is used to indicate that someone or something experiences or is subjected to a process, change, or procedure. For example, "The patient will undergo surgery", or "The company is undergoing significant restructuring".

What can I say instead of "undergo"?

You can use alternatives like "experience", "go through", or "be subjected to" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "undergo a change"?

Yes, it's perfectly correct and common to say "undergo a change". It means that something is experiencing or will experience a transformation or modification.

What is the difference between "undergo" and "undertake"?

"Undergo" means to experience or be subjected to something, whereas "undertake" means to commit to or begin a task or project. For example, a patient might "undergo" treatment, while a researcher might "undertake" a study.