Translation guide
The phrasal verb "take on" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for English-speaking learners of Japanese, organized by practical meaning.
To agree to do something, accept a duty, or assume a role.
The most common and versatile verb for accepting tasks, responsibilities, or roles. It implies willingly taking something on.
He took on a new project.
Could you take on that job?
To shoulder or bear a responsibility, often used for important roles or duties. Slightly more formal and weighty than 引き受ける.
She is someone who will take on the future of the company.
Literally "to take responsibility." Used when someone accepts blame or accountability, not just a task.
He took on the responsibility for the failure.
To undertake or contract to do a job, often in a business or professional context. Implies a formal agreement.
The construction company took on the bridge construction.
To give someone a job or position.
To oppose or fight someone or something.
To challenge or take on an opponent, difficulty, or task. The object is marked with に.
He took on the champion.
You need courage to take on new problems.
To fight against someone or something. More direct and physical than 挑む.
He took on a strong opponent.
To confront or stand up to a challenge or adversary. Emphasizes facing something daunting.
They took on the difficulties.
To begin to have a particular quality or appearance.
To take on a certain quality, color, or characteristic. Often used in written language.
The sky took on a reddish hue.
His voice took on a tone of sadness.
A formal expression meaning to present the appearance or aspect of something. Used in technical or literary contexts.
To allow people or goods to come onto a vehicle or ship.
To take on passengers or load goods onto a vehicle. The vehicle is the subject or topic, and the object is what is loaded.
The bus took on passengers at the stop.
To load cargo or freight onto a ship, truck, etc. More specific to goods.
The English phrasal verb "take on" cannot be directly translated as a single Japanese word in most cases. Always choose the expression that matches the specific meaning you intend.
引き受ける is the everyday word for accepting tasks or responsibilities. 担う implies a heavier, often long-term responsibility and is more formal. Use 引き受ける for most situations.
I took on the meeting preparations.
He is a leader who takes on the nation's future.
I can't take on any more work right now.
She took on the role of team leader.
The situation is taking on a serious aspect.
船は港で貨物を積み込んだ。
The ship took on cargo at the port.