take on

British  

verb

1. to employ or hire

   to take on new workmen

2. to assume or acquire

   his voice took on a plaintive note

3. to agree to do; undertake

   I'll take on that job for you

4. to compete against, oppose, or fight

   I will take him on at tennis

   I'll take him on any time

5. informal (intr) to exhibit great emotion, esp grief

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take on Idioms  

1. Undertake or begin to deal with, as in I took on new responsibilities , or She took on too much when she accepted both assignments . [Early 1300s]

2. Hire, engage, as in We take on extra workers during the busy season . [Early 1600s]

3. Oppose in competition, as in This young wrestler was willing to take on all comers . [Late 1800s]

4. Display strong emotion, as in Don't take on so . [ Colloquial ; early 1400s]

5. Acquire as, or as if, one's own, as in He took on the look of a prosperous banker . [Late 1700s]

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Example Sentences

The Scots trailed for most of the game as they took on a Wales side who had lost 23 of their last 25 Tests, only taking the lead with George Turner's 75th-minute try.

From Barron's

In men's curling later, Britain will seek to upgrade the silver medal they won four years ago in Beijing when they take on Canada in the final.

From Barron's

However, the then-Prince Charles had reservations about his brother taking on the position, according to palace officials.

From The Wall Street Journal

How Nexstar could take on the broadcast networks is a mystery.

From Los Angeles Times

Benike, of Busy Baby, says she imports all her baby products from China because no U.S.-based manufacturers are willing to take on orders as small as hers.

From The Wall Street Journal