What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
assume
Example
I assume she will be at the meeting since she always attends. [assume: verb]
Example
He assumed the position of team leader after the previous leader resigned. [assumed: past tense]
undertake
Example
She undertook the challenge of organizing the event. [undertook: past tense]
Example
They have undertaken the task of renovating the entire house. [undertaken: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assume is more commonly used than undertake in everyday language. Assume is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while undertake is less common and typically used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between assume and undertake?
While assume can be used in both formal and informal contexts, undertake is generally more formal and is commonly used in professional or business settings.