Meaning and Usage
The verb 引受る (ひきうける) means "to undertake," "to take up," or "to take over" a task, responsibility, or project. It is often used when someone agrees to accept a duty or responsibility that may require effort or commitment.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear 引受る in work or social situations where someone is accepting a role, task, or responsibility. It can also imply a sense of commitment or readiness to handle something challenging.
Collocations and Patterns
- 引受ける仕事 (ひきうけるしごと): "the work one undertakes" — used when accepting a specific job or task.
- 責任を引受ける (せきにんをひきうける): "to take responsibility" — common in formal or serious contexts.
- 引受ける覚悟がある (ひきうけるかくごがある): "to be prepared to undertake" — expresses readiness or determination.
Register and Nuance
引受る is polite and neutral, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It conveys a proactive and willing attitude toward accepting duties.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 引受る with simple "to receive" (受ける). Remember that 引受る specifically implies taking on responsibility or a task, not just receiving something passively.