French word

entreprendre

Pronunciation

IPA/ɑ̃tʁəpʁɑ̃dʁ/

Meaning

  • verbstart

Example

Je vais entreprendre des cours de français.

I am going to start French classes.

Illustration for entreprendre (start)

More examples

Ils ont décidé d'entreprendre un projet ensemble.

They decided to start a project together.

Core concept

A person takes a project in hand, sets it in motion, and carries it forward toward completion.

Common phrases

  • entreprendre des démarches

    take steps

  • entreprendre un projet

    start a project

  • entreprendre des travaux

    begin work

Similar words

commencer: To enter the initial stage of doing something.
démarrer: To get a machine, project, or activity moving.
lancer: To introduce a new business or product to the market.
se mettre à: To start carrying out an activity or task.

Definition in French

Commencer une action ou un projet en prenant l'initiative et en s'engageant à le mener à terme.

Word origin

Entreprendre comes from Old French entreprendre, formed from entre- and prendre, ultimately reflecting Latin inter and prehendere.

Usage tips

  • Entreprendre is more formal and project-focused than everyday commencer or se mettre à, especially for substantial plans or commitments.

Other meanings

  • undertakeverb
  • attemptverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word