1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To decide independently to do something without being asked, sometimes implying presumption.
"He took it upon himself to rewrite the entire report without consulting anyone on the team."
inseparable
take it upon oneself
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To decide to do something on one's own initiative, without being asked or authorized.
In plain English
To decide all by yourself to do something, even when nobody told you to.
What does "take it upon oneself" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To accept personal responsibility for an action or outcome, showing admirable initiative.
"She took it upon herself to mentor the new employees even though it wasn't part of her job description."
inseparable
Usage tip
Usually followed by an infinitive: 'took it upon herself to organize the event.' Carries a slightly presumptuous or self-important tone in some contexts, but can also express admirable initiative. More formal than 'take it on yourself.'
Words that pair with "take it upon oneself"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
organize inform decide manage arrange investigate
How to conjugate "take it upon oneself"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
take it upon oneself
I/you/we/they
3rd person
takes it upon oneself
he/she/it
Past simple
took it upon oneself
yesterday
Past participle
taken it upon oneself
have + pp
-ing form
taking it upon oneself
continuous
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Other ways to say "take it upon oneself"
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appoint oneself make it one's business take responsibility take the initiative volunteer
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