Translation guide
The English verb 'undertake' means to commit oneself to and begin a task, project, or responsibility, often one that is difficult or formal. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you are starting a project, taking on a duty, promising to do something, or formally contracting to perform work.
Expressing that you accept and begin a piece of work, especially something challenging or important.
The most common and versatile equivalent. It means to accept and take responsibility for a task, duty, or request. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
彼はその難しいプロジェクトを引き受けた。
He undertook the difficult project.
私がその仕事を引き受けます。
I'll undertake that job.
Focuses on the act of starting or embarking on a task or project. Often used in formal or business contexts.
会社は新事業に着手した。
The company undertook a new venture.
Means to tackle or grapple with a task, often implying sustained effort. Commonly used for problems, challenges, or long-term projects.
彼らは環境問題に取り組んでいる。
They are undertaking environmental issues.
Expressing a pledge or guarantee to perform an action, often in legal or official contexts.
The general word for 'promise'. When used with a following action, it conveys undertaking to do something.
彼は支払うと約束した。
He undertook to pay.
To guarantee or assure that something will be done. Stronger than a simple promise, often used in business.
品質を請け合います。
We undertake to guarantee the quality.
Literally 'to do ~ with responsibility'. A natural way to express undertaking an action responsibly.
私が責任を持って手配します。
I will undertake the arrangements.
Used when a company or professional formally agrees to carry out a job, often in construction, law, or services.
Specifically means to contract to do a job for a set price. Common in construction, manufacturing, and freelance work.
その建設会社が橋の工事を請け負った。
The construction company undertook the bridge work.
Means to accept a commission or be entrusted with a task. Very formal, used in legal and business documents.
当社はデータ処理業務を受託しております。
Our company undertakes data processing services.
While 着手する means 'to start/undertake', it cannot be used for promising to do something. Use 約束する or 請け合う instead.
彼は支払いに着手した。
He started payment. (Not 'He undertook to pay.')
引き受ける is general 'take on a task', while 請け負う implies a formal contract with payment. Use 引き受ける for everyday responsibilities and 請け負う for business contracts.