undertake a program

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undertake a program" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the initiation or participation in a specific plan or course of action, often in a formal or organizational context. Example: "The organization decided to undertake a program aimed at improving community health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

The state is about to undertake a program that it has no capacity to implement and no track record for.

The New York Times

"There is wide speculation that China is going to undertake a program of monetary tightening," he said.

The New York Times

Only with the formation of the Reich ("empire") in 1871 was it possible to undertake a program of national codification.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It greatly influenced the Communist Party's decision to undertake a program of economic liberalization to relieve the hardships suffered by the Russian population during the Civil War.

Britannica

The Virginia Beach Police Department will soon undertake a program, aimed at trolling the city's resort strip, similar to the one begun in Tampa's entertainment district, Ybor City.

The New York Times - Magazine

"My intention was only to encourage whoever was going to be elected to the city council to undertake a program over a period of time to go through the code and modernize it".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

And then he systematically undertakes a program to reconstruct his image.

Harvard Business Review

In the early 21st century the government undertook a program to encourage the development of theatre.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Over the past three years we have undertaken a program of work to explore these issues.

Infection, Disease & Health

The Society has recently undertaken a program of guided tours of the city, called "Discover New York".

The New Yorker

In 1939 the FBI undertook a program of surveying industrial plants engaged in the manufacture of strategic war material.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undertake a program", ensure the subject is an organization, government, or entity capable of planning and executing complex activities. For individuals, consider using alternatives like "start a program" or "begin a program".

Common error

Avoid using "undertake a program" in very casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stiff. Opt for simpler alternatives like "start" or "try" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undertake a program" functions primarily as a verb phrase where "undertake" is the verb indicating the action of starting or engaging in something, and "a program" is the direct object specifying what is being initiated. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

21%

Less common in

Science

13%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undertake a program" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies initiating a planned set of activities, often within a formal or organizational setting. As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly news, academic writing, and encyclopedic content. While versatile, it's best reserved for formal contexts; simpler alternatives are preferable for casual conversation. Top sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica demonstrate its consistent use in professional writing. Remember to reserve this phrase for organizations and entities, and choose alternatives such as 'start' or 'begin' when referring to individual actions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate a project

Focuses more on the beginning phase of a specific task or project.

launch an initiative

Implies a public introduction or beginning of a significant plan.

commence an endeavor

Suggests a more formal and potentially challenging undertaking.

embark on a scheme

May imply a more elaborate or strategic plan, sometimes with underlying motives.

pursue a strategy

Highlights the active following of a defined method to achieve a goal.

implement a plan

Emphasizes the execution and putting a plan into action.

conduct a study

Specifically refers to carrying out research or investigation.

engage in a campaign

Often associated with a focused effort to achieve a specific objective, such as a marketing or social cause.

carry out an operation

Suggests a precise and often complex set of actions.

develop an activity

Focuses on the creation and growth of a specific pursuit or task.

FAQs

What does "undertake a program" mean?

To "undertake a program" means to begin, commit to, and proceed with a planned set of activities or initiatives, typically with a specific goal in mind. It implies a deliberate and often formal commitment.

When should I use "undertake a program" instead of "start a program"?

"Undertake a program" is more formal and often used when the program is large, complex, and involves an organization. "Start a program" is more general and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For example, an individual might "start a fitness program", while a government might "undertake a program" to reduce poverty.

What are some synonyms for "undertake a program"?

Alternatives include "initiate a project", "launch an initiative", "implement a plan", or "commence an endeavor". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it correct to say "undertake in a program"?

No, the correct phrasing is "undertake a program". The verb "undertake" directly takes a noun phrase as its object, indicating what is being started or committed to.