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Undertaking: meaning, definitions and examples

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undertaking

 

[ˈʌndəˌteɪkɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

business

A task or project that is taken on, especially one that involves a considerable amount of effort or difficulty.

Synonyms

enterprise, project, venture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
undertaking

Used when referring to a task or project that is significant in size or complexity. It often implies a serious or formal endeavor.

  • Building the new bridge was a massive undertaking.
  • The charity event was a big undertaking, but it was worth the effort.
project

Commonly used in both professional and personal contexts to describe any planned work or research that has specific objectives and a timeline.

  • The science project is due next Monday.
  • She is working on a new project to improve customer service.
venture

Often used to describe a new business endeavor or a risky undertaking. It usually implies a higher level of risk and potential reward.

  • The new tech startup is an exciting venture.
  • They embarked on a joint venture to develop a new product.
enterprise

Typically used in a business context, referring to a company or a business initiative. It conveys a sense of entrepreneurial spirit and initiative.

  • She started a successful tech enterprise.
  • Social enterprises aim to address social issues through innovative business models.

Examples of usage

  • The company is currently involved in a major undertaking to expand its operations globally.
  • She viewed the renovation of the old building as a challenging undertaking.
  • Undertakings of this scale require careful planning and execution.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

A formal pledge or promise to do something.

Synonyms

assurance, commitment, promise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
undertaking

Used when referring to a formal project, task, or responsibility that someone has agreed to do.

  • The renovation of the historic building was a major undertaking.
  • Starting a business is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning.
commitment

Used to describe a strong dedication or obligation to a cause, activity, or relationship.

  • His commitment to volunteer work is commendable.
  • Marriage requires a strong commitment from both partners.
promise

Used when making a declaration or pledge to do something, often in a personal or informal context.

  • I made a promise to always be there for her.
  • He broke his promise to help me with my homework.
assurance

Used to provide confidence or a guarantee to someone, often in a professional or formal context.

  • The manager gave assurance that the project would be completed on time.
  • She sought assurance from the doctor that the surgery was routine and safe.

Examples of usage

  • He made an undertaking to complete the work within the specified timeframe.
  • The contractor provided a written undertaking to deliver the project as per the client's requirements.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old English 'underhten,' meaning to take upon oneself, showing its roots in personal responsibility.
  • In the 14th century, the term started to be used in a broader sense, referring to projects or promises one commits to.
  • Originally, those who undertook significant works were often seen as noble figures in society, emphasizing honor and duty.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, undertaking a journey is seen as a rite of passage, symbolizing growth and courage.
  • Major undertakings, such as building monuments or cities, often reflect the values and aspirations of the societies behind them.
  • In literature and films, protagonists often embark on undertakings that symbolize their personal growth or moral challenges.

Psychology

  • The act of undertaking a task can boost self-esteem, as completing it often leads to feelings of accomplishment.
  • People are more likely to succeed in their undertakings when they set clear goals and visualize the steps needed to achieve them.
  • Taking on new undertakings can also help individuals develop resilience and problem-solving skills through challenges.

Historical Examples

  • The establishment of public works, such as roads and bridges, was often referred to as a community undertaking in history.
  • Famous historical figures, like explorers, often made significant undertakings to discover new lands, shaping our world map.
  • In the 19th century, large undertakings like the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad changed transportation across the United States.

Modern Usage

  • In the business world, 'undertaking' often refers to major projects, such as launching new products or business ventures.
  • The term is commonly used in legal contexts, denoting commitments made by individuals or organizations in contracts.
  • Social movements today are often seen as collective undertakings, where communities band together for a common cause.

Translations

Translations of the word "undertaking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 empreendimento

🇮🇳 उद्यम

🇩🇪 Unterfangen

🇮🇩 usaha

🇺🇦 підприємство

🇵🇱 przedsięwzięcie

🇯🇵 事業 (じぎょう)

🇫🇷 entreprise

🇪🇸 empresa

🇹🇷 girişim

🇰🇷 사업

🇸🇦 مشروع

🇨🇿 podnik

🇸🇰 podnik

🇨🇳 企业 (qǐyè)

🇸🇮 podjetje

🇮🇸 fyrirtæki

🇰🇿 кәсіпорын

🇬🇪 საქმე

🇦🇿 müəssisə

🇲🇽 empresa

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,888, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.