godan verb (-u), transitive verb
carry on one's shoulder; shoulder; bear physically
Literal use for carrying something supported by the shoulder, sometimes with a pole or load. In everyday conversation, 担ぐ is often the more familiar verb for physically carrying on the shoulder, while 担う can sound somewhat written or deliberate.
昔は水桶を天秤棒で担って運んだ。
In the past, people carried water buckets with a shoulder pole.
He walked with a large load on his shoulder.
godan verb (-u), transitive verb
bear responsibility; take on a burden; play a role
Figurative use for carrying a responsibility, mission, social function, or important role. Common in written and formal-neutral contexts with nouns such as 責任, 役割, 将来, and 一翼.
彼女は新しいプロジェクトの責任を担っている。
She bears responsibility for the new project.
若い世代が社会の未来を担う。
The younger generation will carry the future of society.