# take up golf

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/take-up-golf
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to start doing a new activity or hobby like golf.

For teachers: to commence a new hobby, interest, or sport; specifically used for the initiation of a regular pursuit.

## Examples

- I want to take up golf this summer.
- After he retired, he decided to take up golf to stay active and meet new people.
- Many executives take up golf not merely for the physical exercise, but to facilitate networking in a relaxed outdoor environment.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I took up to golf." but "I took up golf." — the phrasal verb 'take up' is followed directly by the noun or gerund, not an infinitive with 'to'.

## Usage notes

- the activity or hobby follows the verb as a direct object.
- Teaching tip: focus on 'take up' as the core phrasal verb meaning 'to start'; 'golf' is just one common collocation, but it works for any hobby like painting or yoga.

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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.