αναλαμβάνω
Lemma: αναλαμβάνω
Translation: to undertake; to assume; to take on; to take up; to recover; to retrieve (verb)
Etymology: From ancient Greek ἀναλαμβάνω, composed of ἀνά (ana, 'up, back') + λαμβάνω (lambanō, 'to take'). The prefix ἀνά suggests upward movement or repetition, giving the sense of 'taking up' or 'taking back.' This compound structure is similar to English 'undertake' (under + take) but with the opposite directional prefix. The root λαμβάνω is cognate with Latin 'capere' (to take), which appears in English words like 'capture' and 'accept.'
Example Usage
Ανέλαβε την ευθύνη για το έργο.
He undertook the responsibility for the project.
Ο ασθενής αναλαμβάνει σιγά σιγά.
The patient is recovering gradually.
Ανέλαβε τη διεύθυνση της εταιρείας.
He took over the management of the company.
Ο νέος υπουργός αναλαμβάνει καθήκοντα αύριο.
The new minister takes office tomorrow.
Η εταιρεία ανέλαβε ένα μεγάλο έργο.
The company undertook a major project.
Αναλαμβάνω την ευθύνη για το λάθος.
I take responsibility for the mistake.
Mnemonics
- Think 'ana-' as 'up' + 'take' = take up a responsibility
- Remember 'analyze' starts with 'ana-' - both involve taking something up for examination
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Commonly used in professional, political, and academic contexts when discussing responsibilities, duties, or initiatives. Frequently appears in news reports about politicians taking office or companies undertaking projects.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: λαμβάνω means simply 'to take' or 'to receive', while αναλαμβάνω means 'to undertake' or 'to assume responsibility'
Notes: αναλαμβάνω implies active assumption of duty or responsibility, while λαμβάνω is more passive reception
Mnemonic: αναλαμβάνω has 'ανα-' prefix = taking UP responsibility, λαμβάνω is just taking/receiving