Translation guide
To begin a significant or challenging undertaking, such as a journey, project, or new phase. Japanese uses different verbs depending on the nature of what is started.
To begin traveling, especially a long or important journey.
The most natural way to say 'embark on a journey'. Literally 'go out on a journey'.
He embarked on a round-the-world trip.
Means 'depart' or 'set out'. Can be used for journeys, but is more formal and less vivid than 旅に出る.
The expedition will embark for the North Pole tomorrow.
Literally 'set sail'. Used specifically for embarking on a ship voyage, often with a poetic or momentous nuance.
They embarked on a voyage to the New World.
To begin a significant undertaking such as a business, career, or life stage.
Means 'to launch into' or 'to set out on' a new venture. Conveys proactive engagement.
He embarked on a new business venture.
Formal term meaning 'to start work on' or 'to commence'. Common in business and official contexts.
Simple verb meaning 'to begin'. Works for many contexts but lacks the weight of 'embark on'. Use with nouns like 新しい生活 (new life) or 計画 (plan).
Literally 'step forward'. Used metaphorically for taking the first step into something new, often with courage.
To begin something that requires sustained effort, like research, a book, or a complex process.
Means 'to get started on' or 'to set about' a task. Emphasizes the beginning of work.
He embarked on writing his thesis.
Means 'to tackle' or 'to work on'. Implies grappling with a challenge. Often used for problems or long-term projects.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'embark on'. Translating word-for-word as '乗り出す' for every context will sound unnatural. Choose the expression based on whether you are starting a journey, a project, or a task.
乗り出す suggests proactive, sometimes bold initiation, often into new territory. 着手する is neutral and formal, simply meaning 'to commence work'. Use 乗り出す for ventures and 着手する for official projects.
They embarked on a journey across Asia.
She embarked on a career in medicine.
More natural than a direct translation; 道に進む means 'to go into the field of'.
The company embarked on a large-scale reform.
彼女は新しい生活を始めた。
She embarked on a new life.
彼は勇気を出して新しい分野に踏み出した。
He mustered the courage to embark on a new field.
チームは難問に取り組んでいる。
The team has embarked on a difficult problem.