# undergo

/ˌəndɝˈɡoʊ/ (US) · /ˌʌndəɡˈəʊ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/undergo
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to experience a process or change

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

to experience a change or a process that takes time.

For teachers: to experience or be subjected to a process, transformation, or period of development. Transitive — always requires a direct object.

- The old train station will undergo a major renovation next year to modernize the platforms.
- The company is currently undergoing a massive restructuring process in an attempt to improve efficiency and reduce overhead costs.

### 2. to have medical treatment

verb · CEFR B2

to have a medical operation or a series of tests.

For teachers: to be subjected to a medical procedure, surgery, or diagnostic testing.

- He had to undergo several tests at the hospital before the doctors could find the problem.
- The patient will undergo surgery tomorrow morning to repair the damaged ligament in her knee.

### 3. to endure something difficult

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to go through a difficult or painful experience.

For teachers: to endure or suffer through a challenging, unpleasant, or painful experience. Often carries a more formal tone than 'go through'.

- The explorers had to undergo many hardships during their long journey across the desert.
- Prisoners of war often undergo extreme psychological stress that can lead to long-term trauma if not addressed immediately upon their release.

## Examples

- The old building will undergo major repairs next month.
- New recruits must undergo a series of physical tests before they can join the police force.
- The aerospace industry has had to undergo significant structural changes to remain competitive in an era of rising fuel costs and stricter environmental regulations.

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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.