Business English from All Ears English BE 535: Take Part or Partake? How to Avoid Overly Formal Vocabulary
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Feb 26, 2026 Clear comparisons of similar verbs like take part versus partake, and when to use in or of. A plain explanation of undertake versus undergo and their different tones. Practical role play showing these verbs in workplace conversations. Handy tips on prepositions and when certain words sound formal or old-fashioned.
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Lindsay's C-Section Story Illustrates Undergo
- Lindsay shares she had a C-section for her second daughter and again for twins because a VBAC wasn't allowed.
- She contrasts choosing surgery with feeling it was not truly optional in practice.
Use Take Part In For Everyday Participation
- Use take part in to mean participate in activities or events at work.
- Say "take part in the discussion" or ask "Did you take part?" for natural everyday English.
Partake Sounds Elevated And Has Two Prepositions
- Partake is more formal, old-fashioned, or literary and less common in everyday speech.
- Use partake of for food and partake in for events or perks, but expect it to sound elevated or biblical.