# embark upon

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/embark-upon
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to start a new project, journey, or activity that is usually big or important.

For teachers: to commence a significant undertaking or journey; typically used for major life changes or formal projects.

## Examples

- She is about to embark upon a new career in medicine.
- After graduating from university, he decided to embark upon a solo trip across South America.
- The nation is prepared to embark upon a series of radical economic reforms to stabilize the currency.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They embarked upon to build the house." but "They embarked upon building the house." — the phrase is followed by a noun or a gerund (-ing form), not an infinitive.

## Usage notes

- highly formal and usually followed by a noun representing a major life event or project.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'start' or 'begin'; 'embark upon' suggests a sense of adventure or a long-term commitment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.