took 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 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.

The pair were so close that Bunney took on Nick's dream of creating a girls' football academy when the former Rochdale player's own career came to an end in 2025.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

In 2019, Patti Smith took on the challenge in this same auditorium, adding a new edge.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s leadership has added more than $500 billion in market value since he took on the role in March of last year.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

Ryan Tomash, promoted to principal dancer this year, took on several roles for the first time, and distinguished himself with his vivid presence and his eager energy as both dancer and partner.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

Women and men often took on gender roles that were more traditional and distinct than their roles are today.

From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson