Definitions

take on

VERB

assume, accept

Synonyms

WEAK

acquire add address oneself to adopt agree to do annex append attempt become begin come to have commence develop embrace employ endeavor engage enlist enroll espouse handle have a go at hire launch put on retain set about tackle take in hand take up take upon oneself try turn undertake venture

Antonyms

WEAK

refuse reject

VERB

compete

Synonyms

WEAK

attack battle contend contest encounter engage face face off fight match meet oppose pit vie

Antonyms

WEAK

refuse reject

VERB

challenge, oppose

Synonyms

WEAK

brave buck call out confront dare defy denounce dispute face-off go eyeball to eyeball with go one on one with go toe to toe with go up against hang in insist upon investigate invite competition make a stand object to question stand up to throw down the gauntlet

Antonyms

WEAK

refuse reject

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Given the amount of debt they are about to take on, they have to look under every rock to find whatever savings they can.”

From MarketWatch • May 15, 2026

There was Anderson’s take on the bar jacket that Christian Dior made for Marlene Dietrich to wear in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Stage Fright,” white with a geometric black collar.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2026

While most of the other pilots were interested in aerobatics, Dallin volunteered to take on a reconnaissance mission with a camera mounted behind the cockpit.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

Incoming Fed Chair Kevin Warsh was confirmed by the Senate with a vote of 54-45 on Wednesday afternoon, becoming the 17th person to take on the job.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

Illinois may have been ready to take on the issue of segregation, but the rest of the parade leadership was not.

From "Votes for Women!" by Winifred Conkling

take on

Example Sentences

Related Words