To take up a post, position, seat, or office; to assume a role or be employed in a position.
田中さんは来月部長に就く予定だ。
Mr. Tanaka is scheduled to assume the position of department manager next month.
式典で客は順に席に就いた。
At the ceremony, guests took their seats in order.
彼女はその会社に就いてから三年になる。
It's been three years since she joined that company.
To ascend to a throne or accede to a position—formally taking on an authoritative role.
新王が即位し、正式に王位に就いた。
The new king ascended and formally took the throne.
社長に就いた直後、彼は会社の改革に取りかかった。
Immediately after taking office as president, he began reforming the company.
To set out or depart; to commence a journey or undertaking.
朝早く港を出て、長い旅に就いた。
They left the port early in the morning and embarked on a long journey.
彼は研究の道に就くことを決めた。
He decided to embark on a career in research.
To study under someone or become an apprentice; to enter into apprenticeship or tutelage.
若い陶芸家は有名な先生に就いて技術を磨いた。
The young potter studied under a famous master and refined his skills.
音楽の道に就くため、彼女は海外で修行を始めた。
To pursue music, she began training abroad.