Phrasal verb
take up sth
Definition
phrasal verb. to start a new hobby, activity, or job. You use this when you begin doing something regularly for the first time.
phrasal verb. to commence a new activity, hobby, or interest; often implies a voluntary or recreational pursuit. It can also refer to occupying a specific amount of space or time.
Examples
“I decided to take up yoga to help me relax.”
“After he retired, he took up gardening and spent every morning in his backyard.”
“The new administrative duties will take up a significant portion of her schedule, leaving little room for research.”
Examples
simple
“I decided to take up yoga to help me relax.”
contextual
“After he retired, he took up gardening and spent every morning in his backyard.”
complex
“The new administrative duties will take up a significant portion of her schedule, leaving little room for research.”
Usage
usually followed by a noun representing a hobby, sport, or interest.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'start' (general) and 'adopt' (more formal); focus on the 'newness' of the hobby or interest being introduced.
Pitfall
I took up to play tennis.
I took up playing tennis.
use a noun or a gerund (-ing form) after this phrasal verb, not an infinitive.
Phrasal verb
Particles
up
Separability
optional
Pattern
take + up + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/take-up-sth