Differences between take on and take up
Take on usually means to accept or undertake a task, responsibility, or challenge, whereas take up generally means to start a new hobby, activity, or interest.
Meanings and Definitions: take on vs take up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Take up
- 1Fill or occupy time or space.
An awful lot of my time at work is TAKEN UP with pointless bureaucracy nowadays.
- 2Make clothes shorter.
The trousers were too long so I TOOK them UP to make them fit.
- 3Start a new hobby, pastime, etc..
He TOOK UP squash as he felt he had to lose some weight.
Usage Examples: take on, take up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
take on
Example
I am ready to take on this new project.
Example
She takes on extra work to help her team.
take up
Example
She decided to take up painting as a way to relax.
Example
He takes up a new hobby every year to challenge himself.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take on
To accept or take responsibility for a task or situation.
Example
As the team leader, she had to shoulder the responsibility of ensuring the project was completed on time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in take on vs take up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: take on or take up?
In daily conversation, people use take up more often than take on. This is because take up is used for more leisure activities and interests. Take on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about accepting a challenge or responsibility. So, while both phrases are used, take up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take on and take up
Take on and take up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of take on and take up
The tone of take on and take up can differ based on context. Take on often carries a serious or challenging tone when related to accepting a responsibility or task, while take up typically has a positive and enthusiastic tone, especially when referring to starting a new hobby or interest.
