English · Daily Life
take up
/teɪk ʌp/
[/teɪk ʌp/]
start a hobby; occupy
Intermediateverb
Definition
To start a new hobby or activity, or to occupy time or space.
Example
She took up painting after retiring and now sells her landscapes at the local craft market.
She took up painting after retiring and now sells her landscapes at the local craft market.
Etymology
From 'take' plus 'up', meaning to adopt or occupy, in use since the Middle Ages.
How & Where It’s Used
Common for hobbies and pursuits; also 'take up space' and 'take up an offer'.