undertake the work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undertake the work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of taking on a task or responsibility, often in a formal or professional context. Example: "After careful consideration, I have decided to undertake the work required for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Experts such as the King's Fund or Nuffield Trust health thinktanks could undertake the work, he suggested.

The Guardian

"We did not undertake the work during the transfer window that we had expected and the squad is limited.

The Guardian - Sport

The OECD was asked by the G20 to undertake the work as the premier organisation responsible for international tax treaties.

The Guardian

IT is a truism that artists in their last years confront the waning of their powers and undertake the work of valediction.

The New York Times

And what they do is also dictated by the willingness of the studio that owns the film to hire them to undertake the work.

The New York Times

Recently, a group of students in a lecture refused to undertake the work set because they didn't want to apply postmodern perspectives to what for them was a sacred text.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

So I understand why Danny Pearl undertook the work he did.

The New York Times

So Mr. Cervantes and Mr. Cruz undertook the work.

The New York Times

But the BP official said pressure data made engineers hopeful that undertaking the work would not make the leak worse.

The New York Times

He said the memorial was undertaking the work in consultation "with heritage specialists and Indigenous stakeholders to determine the fate" of the 26 gargoyles.

The Guardian - Opinion

But even as he undertook the work, events occurred that were to change its character — and, indeed, to deprive him of his material.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "undertake the work", ensure the context clearly defines what 'the work' specifically refers to. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the task or project being discussed.

Common error

While "undertake the work" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "do the work" or "start the task" when communicating informally.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undertake the work" functions as a verb phrase, where "undertake" is the main verb indicating the act of starting or committing to a task, and "the work" serves as the direct object, specifying the task or project being initiated. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

9%

Academia

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undertake the work" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies committing to and initiating a task or project. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for formal or neutral contexts, as shown by its prevalence in news, science, and wiki sources. While it's a versatile phrase, remember to consider simpler alternatives like "take on the work" or "begin the work" for informal situations. Ensure clarity by specifying what 'the work' entails. Remember this and you will be able to use this expression in a good way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take on the work

This alternative is slightly less formal and directly implies accepting responsibility for the task.

carry out the work

This alternative emphasizes the execution and completion of the task.

perform the work

This alternative focuses on the action of doing the work, often suggesting a structured or procedural approach.

execute the work

This alternative suggests a more planned and controlled approach to completing the work.

conduct the work

This alternative is often used in formal contexts, such as research or investigations.

begin the work

This alternative emphasizes the start of the task, rather than the ongoing process.

start the work

This alternative is similar to 'begin the work' but is generally less formal.

handle the work

This alternative implies managing or dealing with the work, focusing on the responsibility aspect.

engage in the work

This alternative emphasizes active participation and involvement in the work.

pursue the work

This alternative suggests following through with the work, often with determination or effort.

FAQs

What does "undertake the work" mean?

The phrase "undertake the work" means to commit to and begin a task or project. It implies a formal acceptance of responsibility and a willingness to start the required activities.

What can I say instead of "undertake the work"?

You can use alternatives like "take on the work", "carry out the work", or "perform the work" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "undertake the work" formal or informal?

"Undertake the work" leans towards the formal side. In informal settings, phrases like "do the work" or "start the work" might be more appropriate.

How do I use "undertake the work" in a sentence?

You can use "undertake the work" to describe the beginning of a project or task. For example: "The researchers will undertake the work to analyze the data" or "The company decided to undertake the work of renovating the building".