What are the definitions of “take on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “take on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb take on is to assume a responsibility or accept a challenge. It means that someone is willing to do a task or job, even if it is difficult. For example, it can be used when someone agrees to complete a project, help with a problem, or participate in a competition.
What are the different verb forms of “take on”?
| Root Verb | take on |
| Third Person Singular Present | takes on |
| Present Participle | taking on |
| Simple Past | took on |
| Past Participle | taken on |
Example
I am ready to take on this new project.
Example
She takes on extra work to help her team.
Example
He is taking on a new role at the company.
Example
They took on the challenge and succeeded.
Example
She had taken on too much work and felt overwhelmed.
What kind of phrasal verb is “take on”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“take on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
He took on the responsibility of caring for his elderly parents.
Example
She took on a new job to support her family.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“take on” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He took on the responsibility of caring for his elderly parents.
Example
She took on a new job to support her family.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “take on”?
Good things to know
Does “take on” have an informal or formal tone?
Take on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings. For example, it can be used when discussing work responsibilities, personal challenges, or accepting new tasks.
