# take up sth

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to start a new hobby, activity, or job. You use this when you begin doing something regularly for the first time.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I took up to play tennis." but "I took up playing tennis." — use a noun or a gerund (-ing form) after this phrasal verb, not an infinitive.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.