Embark
Definitions and Meaning in English
- To begin or start a journey, project, or venture.
- To board a ship, aircraft, or other means of transportation, especially for a long trip.
- To engage in an activity or course of action, often one that involves significant effort or commitment.
- To set out on a new endeavor or experience.
History and Origin
The word “embark” comes from the Old French embarquer, meaning “to load a ship” or “to board a ship,” derived from the prefix em- (into) and barque (a type of small boat or ship). The term originally referred to the act of boarding a ship for a journey but later expanded in the 16th century to encompass starting any significant venture, not just one related to travel or ships.
Detailed Explanation
“Embark” is primarily used to describe the beginning of a journey or a significant endeavor, whether literal or figurative. It often implies starting something that requires effort, commitment, or planning. When someone embarks on a journey, they are beginning a physical trip, typically a long or important one, such as a sea voyage or international travel. In a broader sense, the term is used to describe the initiation of various projects, such as business ventures, personal goals, or creative pursuits. The word conveys a sense of starting something with a sense of purpose or intention.
Example Sentences
- They decided to embark on a road trip across the country for the summer.
- The company is set to embark on a new marketing campaign next month.
- She embarked on a career in medicine after years of study.
- The explorers embarked on their journey through the uncharted jungle.
- After graduation, he was ready to embark on the next phase of his life.
- They embarked on a mission to raise awareness for environmental issues.
- The team is about to embark on an ambitious new project.
- The soldiers embarked on their mission at dawn.
- He is about to embark on a journey of self-discovery through travel and exploration.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Commence – To begin or start something, often used in formal contexts.
- Start – To initiate or begin a process or journey.
- Initiate – To begin or set something into motion, especially a process or action.
- Undertake – To begin or take on a significant task, responsibility, or project.
- Launch – To begin or introduce a new venture, project, or activity.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Journey – The act of traveling from one place to another, often used to describe a significant or meaningful trip.
- Adventure – A daring or exciting undertaking, often involving travel or exploration.
- Quest – A long or challenging journey undertaken to achieve a goal or mission.
- Voyage – A long journey, especially by sea or space, often involving exploration.
- Expedition – A journey or trip undertaken for a specific purpose, often involving exploration or research.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Set off – To begin a journey or trip, often with a sense of purpose.
- Head out – To begin traveling to a destination.
- Take off – To start or commence, often used for flights or starting something with rapid growth.
- Go on – To proceed or continue, particularly with an activity or journey.
- Depart – To leave a place, often beginning a journey or mission.
Antonyms
- Conclude
- End
- Finish
- Cease
- Halt