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.

Over time, he and his apostles took on various ideologies, dropping them for new ones as times changed and power beckoned.

From Salon • Jun. 25, 2026

The shuttle reflects the physical toll space took on the vessel.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 24, 2026

You bought a car, which may have been the reason you took on this debt, but you need to do what you can to get back in the black.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 18, 2026

When Brazil's players took on water midway through the first half at the New Jersey New York Stadium on Saturday, they deservedly trailed Morocco 1-0 after a lacklustre start.

From BBC • Jun. 15, 2026

The midwife intimidated her, and when intimidated my mother took on a weightless quality, whisking about every time the midwife made one of her slow, solid movements.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover