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Phrasal verbs "catch on" vs "take on"

Differences between catch on and take on

Catch on means to understand or comprehend something, especially a new idea or concept, while take on means to assume responsibility or a task.

Meanings and Definitions: catch on vs take on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Catch on

  • 1Become popular.

    Many critics were shocked when techno CAUGHT ON in the clubs.

  • 2Finally understand what is going on.

    Everyone else realised what was happening, but it took Henry ages to CATCH ON.

Take on

  • 1Allow passengers on a ship or plane.

    The plane stopped at Zurich to TAKE ON some passengers.

  • 2Assume a responsibility.

    She TOOK ON the task of indexing the book.

  • 3Employ.

    The council has had to TAKE ON twenty extra employees to handle their increased workload.

Usage Examples: catch on, take on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

catch on

Example

I hope this new fashion trend catches on soon.

Example

The new dance craze catches on quickly among teenagers.

take on

Example

I am ready to take on this new project.

Example

She takes on extra work to help her team.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Catch on

get the hang of

To learn or become accustomed to doing something skillful or complex.

Example

With practice, she started to get the hang of playing the guitar and even wrote her first song.

grasp the idea

To understand or comprehend a specific idea or concept.

Example

It took him a while to grasp the idea of the new marketing strategy, but he eventually caught on.

figure out

To solve or understand a problem or situation.

Example

After a few attempts, she finally figured out how to use the new software program.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take on

shoulder the responsibility

To assume or accept a responsibility or burden.

Example

As the team leader, he had to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring the project's success.

undertake a task

To agree to do or take responsibility for a specific task or project.

Example

She decided to undertake the task of organizing the company's annual charity event.

assume a duty

To take on a responsibility or obligation.

Example

As a citizen, it's important to assume the duty of voting in elections and participating in democracy.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in catch on vs take on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: catch on or take on?

In daily conversation, people use catch on more often than take on. This is because catch on is used for understanding something new or learning a new skill, which happens more frequently in everyday life. Take on is not used as much in casual conversations, but it's commonly used in work or business settings when discussing tasks or responsibilities.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of catch on and take on

Catch on and take on are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, take on can also be used in formal settings like business or academic contexts, while catch on is less common in those situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of catch on and take on

The tone of catch on and take on can differ based on context. Catch on often carries a positive or excited tone when someone finally understands something, while take on can carry a more serious or responsible tone when someone agrees to take on a task or responsibility.

catch on & take on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Catch on

Synonyms

Antonyms

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