Take On – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever agreed to manage a new project at work, decided to learn a difficult skill, or hired a new team member? In English, you can say you took on the project, the challenge, or the employee. This versatile phrasal verb has two main meanings: (1) to accept a task, role, or challenge, and (2) to hire or employ someone.
What Does “Take On” Mean?
“Take on” can mean two things, depending on context:
1. To accept or begin a responsibility, task, or challenge—like a new job, a difficult conversation, or a personal goal.
2. To hire or employ someone—as in adding a person to a team or company.
Think of it like saying “yes” to something demanding—or bringing someone new into your circle. The phrase is practical, active, and very common in everyday English.
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or professional conversations:
• For accepting challenges: “She took on the role of team leader.”
• For hiring people: “We’re taking on two new interns next month.”
It’s widely used in workplaces, personal development talks, and news stories. This phrasal verb is informal but appropriate in most real-life situations.
Example Sentences
- He took on too many clients and burned out.
- The company is taking on more staff to meet demand.
- I’m not ready to take on another commitment right now.
- She took on the challenge of running a marathon with no training!
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “How’s your new job going?”
Jamie: “Busy! I took on three big projects in the first week.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse “take on” with “take over.” “Take on” means to accept something new; “take over” means to assume control of something that already exists (like a business or shift).
❌ Don’t say: “I took on the manager’s job after she left.” (If you replaced her, use “took over.”)
✅ Do say: “I took on extra duties while she was away.”
Practice Tip
Next time you accept a new task or hear about hiring, say: “I’ll take that on” or “They’re taking on new employees.” It’s a natural way to use both meanings in English!
Final Note
Now you can use “take on” to talk about responsibility and hiring with confidence! It’s a strong, active phrase that shows willingness and leadership. Keep using it—and remember, growth begins when you take on something new.