Are you struggling to understand and use phrasal verbs in English? Well, you’re in luck! In this text, we’ll investigate into 16 essential phrasal verbs with “take” that you can easily learn and start using in your everyday conversations. Phrasal verbs can be tricky to grasp, but once you master them, they will greatly enhance your English language skills.
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and a preposition or adverb that create a whole new meaning. They are commonly used by native English speakers in both spoken and written language, making them crucial to comprehend. By learning these 16 phrasal verbs with “take,” you’ll be well-equipped to express yourself more naturally and fluently.
16 Phrasal Verbs with “Take”
Phrasal verbs are an essential part of English language usage, and mastering them can greatly improve your fluency and natural expression. In this section, we will explore 16 important phrasal verbs with the verb “take” that you can easily learn and start using in your everyday conversations. Let’s immerse!
1. Take after
If you take after someone, it means you resemble them in appearance or character, especially a family member. For example:
- She takes after her mother, as she is also very funny.
- He takes after his father’s side of the family.
2. Take apart
To take something apart means to separate it into its different parts. Here are a couple of examples:
- He took my phone apart to fix it.
- The reviewers took apart the new film, criticizing its weaknesses.
Remember, phrasal verbs may have different meanings based on their context. Understanding their usage in context will help you use them correctly and effectively in your conversations.
3. Take away
Take away has multiple meanings depending on the context. Here are a few examples:
- To remove something: “Take that table away as we don’t need it here.”
- To subtract a number or amount: “Six take away four is two.”
- To buy food from a restaurant and eat it elsewhere: “We ordered Chinese food to take away.”
Learning these phrasal verbs with “take” will enhance your ability to communicate naturally and confidently in English. But remember, this is just the beginning. Stay tuned for more essential phrasal verbs with “take” in the next section.
Now that you have an understanding of these phrasal verbs, it’s time to practice using them in your own sentences. Try incorporating them into your conversations to solidify your grasp on their meanings and usage.
Be sure to check out the rest of the article to learn more about essential phrasal verbs with “take” that will help you become a more fluent English speaker.
Examples of “Take after”
She takes after her mother in terms of looks.
When someone takes after another person, it means they resemble or have similar traits as that person. In this case, the person mentioned takes after their mother in terms of looks. This could mean that they have similar facial features, hair color, or even body shape. It’s like they have inherited certain physical characteristics from their mother.
For example, you might say, “Sarah takes after her mother with her beautiful blue eyes and curly hair.”
He takes after his father when it comes to his love for sports.
Taking after someone can also refer to having similar character or behavior traits. In this example, the person mentioned takes after their father when it comes to their love for sports. It means they share the same passion and enthusiasm for sports just like their father.
For instance, you could say, “John takes after his father in his love for football. They both watch games together and even play in the local league.”
Remember, when using the phrasal verb “take after,” it’s important to specify the trait or aspect that is being inherited or shared. This will help provide more clarity and context to your statement.
Examples of “Take apart”
The mechanic took apart the engine to find the problem.
When something is taken apart, it means that it is being disassembled or separated into its different parts. In this example, the mechanic is dismantling the engine to identify and fix the issue it’s experiencing. By breaking down the engine into its components, the mechanic can examine each part individually to identify the source of the problem.
She took the computer apart to clean out the dust.
Taking something apart can also be done for maintenance purposes, as in this example. Here, the person is disassembling their computer to remove accumulated dust. By carefully separating the different parts of the computer, they can thoroughly clean them, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
3. Take away
Examples of “Take away”
In this section, we’ll explore some examples of the phrasal verb “take away” and how it can be used in different contexts. Let’s immerse!
They took away his phone as a punishment.
One way to use the phrasal verb “take away” is when something is physically removed or confiscated as a form of punishment or discipline. For example, if someone misbehaves, their phone might be taken away as a consequence. Here’s an example sentence:
- When he broke the rules, his parents took away his phone for a week.
The restaurant offers take away service.
Another common usage of “take away” is to refer to getting food from a restaurant or establishment and consuming it elsewhere. This could be ordering food for take-out or using a delivery service. Here’s an example sentence:
- I’m too tired to cook tonight, so I’ll just order some take-away from the restaurant down the street.
With these examples, you can see how the phrasal verb “take away” can be used in different situations. Whether it’s about confiscating something as a punishment or getting food to-go from a restaurant, understanding the context is important in using this phrase correctly.
Remember, the meaning of phrasal verbs can vary depending on the context, so it’s always important to consider the specific situation when using them.
Examples of “Take back”
I want to take back what I said earlier.
If you realize that you said something inappropriate or incorrect, it’s important to take it back and retract your statement. By doing so, you acknowledge your mistake and show willingness to correct it. Taking back what you said can help maintain positive relationships and avoid misunderstandings. For example:
- “I want to take back what I said earlier about your presentation. Upon further reflection, I realize that I misunderstood some key points. I apologize for any confusion caused.”
He took back his promise to help me.
Sometimes circumstances change, and it becomes necessary to take back a promise or commitment. While it’s important to honor your commitments, there may be valid reasons to reconsider or revoke a promise. But, it’s crucial to communicate your decision clearly and honestly. For instance:
- “I’m sorry, but I need to take back my promise to help you move this weekend. Something urgent has come up, and I won’t be available. I apologize for any inconvenience caused.”
5. Take down
To take down something means to remove, dismantle, or disassemble it. This action could be necessary for various reasons, such as repairs, maintenance, or simply clearing space. Here are a few examples:
- “I’m going to take down the Christmas decorations and pack them away until next year.”
- “The maintenance team will be coming to take down the scaffolding from the building.”
- “Before moving the furniture, we need to take it down into smaller pieces for easier transportation.”
6. Take off
The phrasal verb “take off” has multiple meanings. One common usage is when something or someone leaves or departs quickly or suddenly. Here are a few examples:
- “The plane is about to take off, so please fasten your seatbelts and prepare for departure.”
- “She suddenly got a call and had to take off without saying goodbye.”
- “Once the rain stopped, the kids couldn’t wait to take off their raincoats and play outside.”
Remember, understanding the context in which phrasal verbs like “take back,” “take down,” and “take off” are used is essential for accurate usage and effective communication.
Examples of “Take down”
Please take down this information for future reference.
When someone asks you to “take down” information, it means they want you to write it down or make a note of it for future reference. It could be a phone number, an address, an important detail, or any other piece of information that you need to record. Taking down information is essential to remember and refer back to it later.
For example, suppose you’re attending a meeting and your colleague says, “Please take down this important deadline.” In this case, you should make sure to write down the deadline so that you don’t forget it later.
The detective took down all the witness statements.
In another context, “take down” can mean to record or write down something that someone says. This is often used in the context of police investigations or legal proceedings. When a detective or an investigator takes down witness statements, they are documenting what the witnesses say, ensuring accuracy and keeping a record of the information.
For instance, a detective might say, “I need to take down your statement about what happened at the scene of the crime.” This means they will ask you questions and record your answers to gather all the necessary details for their investigation.
Taking down witness statements is crucial for building a case and providing a factual account of events.
Summarizing, the phrasal verb “take down” has two main meanings. It can refer to recording or writing down information for future reference, and it can also mean recording what someone says, particularly in the context of investigations or legal proceedings. Understanding the correct usage and context of “take down” is vital for effective communication and accurate documentation.
Examples of “Take off”
The plane is scheduled to take off at 6 PM.
When referring to the departure of a plane, the phrasal verb “take off” means to leave the ground and begin flying. It is commonly used in the context of flight schedules and travel arrangements. For example, you might say, “The flight to New York is taking off at 6 PM.” This usage emphasizes the start of a flight journey.
She took off her glasses before going to bed.
In this context, “take off” means to remove something, specifically in reference to clothing or accessories. It is often used when discussing the process of undressing or removing an item. For example, “I always take off my shoes when I enter the house.”
7. Take on
Examples of “Take on”
The phrasal verb “take on” has different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are a few examples to help you understand its various uses:
The company decided to take on more employees.
In this context, “take on” means to hire or employ. When a company takes on more employees, it means that they are expanding their workforce. This could be due to increased workload, growth in the business, or the need for specialized skills. For example:
- The company decided to take on five new software engineers to help with the development of their latest product.
- After successfully securing a new contract, the company plans to take on additional staff to handle the increased workload.
I can’t take on any additional responsibilities right now.
In this context, “take on” means to accept or assume responsibility for something. When you say that you can’t take on any additional responsibilities, it means that you are already burdened with enough tasks and cannot handle more. For example:
- I’m sorry, but I can’t take on any additional projects at the moment. My plate is already full with existing assignments.
- With my current workload, I simply don’t have the capacity to take on any more responsibilities.
Understanding the different meanings of “take on” is important to accurately interpret its usage in different contexts. It can refer to hiring employees or accepting responsibility for tasks or projects.
Examples of “Take out”
In this section, we will explore different examples of the phrasal verb “take out” and how it is used in various contexts. By understanding these examples, you will be able to confidently use this phrasal verb in your everyday conversations.
Let’s take out some money from the ATM.
One common usage of “take out” is when you need to withdraw money from an ATM. Whether you’re going shopping or need cash for a specific purpose, you can use this phrasal verb to express your intention to withdraw money from your bank account. For example:
- “I need to take out some cash from the ATM before we go to the movie theater.”
- “Can you take out $50 for me? I need it for groceries.”
They took the family out for dinner to celebrate.
“Take out” can also mean to invite or treat someone to a meal at a restaurant. This usage often implies that the person or group being treated is not responsible for the cost of the meal. Here’s an example:
- “To celebrate their anniversary, they took the whole family out for a fancy dinner.”
Other phrasal verbs with “take”
Apart from “take out,” there are several other phrasal verbs with “take” that are worth exploring. Two of them are:
- Take over: This means to gain control or responsibility for something. For example:
- “After the CEO’s retirement, Sarah will take over as the new head of the company.”
- Take up: This can mean to start or begin engaging in a new hobby, sport, or activity. For example:
- “I’ve decided to take up painting as a hobby during my free time.”
Remember, understanding the correct usage and context of phrasal verbs is essential for effective communication. By familiarizing yourself with examples like the ones provided here, you’ll be better equipped to use these phrasal verbs confidently in your own conversations.
Examples of “Take over”
The new CEO will take over next month.
When a new CEO is appointed, they assume control or responsibility for a company or organization. This can happen when there is a change in leadership, such as the retirement or resignation of the previous CEO. The new CEO takes over the role and begins overseeing the operations of the company.
For example, imagine a company where the current CEO has announced their retirement. The board of directors conducts a search and selects a new CEO. The new CEO, John, will take over from the current CEO, Emily, and assume all her duties and responsibilities. This includes making key decisions, setting strategies, and leading the company towards its goals.
The company plans to take over its competitor.
In business, the term “take over” can also refer to the acquisition or control of another company. When a company plans to take over its competitor, it means they aim to gain ownership or control of the competitor’s assets, operations, and market share.
For instance, let’s say Company A wants to expand its market presence and sees an opportunity to do so by acquiring Company B, its direct competitor. Company A would strategize and make arrangements to purchase a majority stake or all of Company B’s shares. Once the acquisition is complete, Company A will take over Company B and integrate its operations, resources, and customer base into its own.
Taking over a competitor can be a strategic move to increase market share, eliminate competition, or expand into new markets. It allows the acquiring company to leverage the strengths and resources of the acquired company to enhance its own position in the industry.
Remember, understanding the context in which “take over” is used is crucial to using it correctly. Whether it’s a new CEO assuming control or a company acquiring its competitor, knowing the specific meaning and application of the phrasal verb ensures effective communication.
Examples of “Take up”
I want to take up painting as a hobby.
If you have always had an interest in art and creativity, why not take up painting as a hobby? Painting can be a relaxing and fulfilling way to express yourself and explore your artistic side. Whether you are a beginner or have some experience, there are various techniques and styles you can learn and experiment with. Here are some steps to get started:
- Gather your materials: Invest in basic painting supplies such as paints, brushes, canvases, and palettes. Start with a small set and gradually add more colors and brushes as you progress.
- Choose a medium: Decide on the type of paint you want to work with, such as acrylics, oils, or watercolors. Each medium has its unique properties and techniques, so choose one that suits your preferences and goals.
- Take a class or watch tutorials: Consider enrolling in a painting class or watching online tutorials to learn foundational techniques and gain inspiration. Learning from experienced artists can help you develop your skills and explore different styles.
- Practice regularly: Set aside dedicated time for painting and practice consistently. The more you paint, the more you will improve and develop your own artistic style.
- Experiment and have fun: Don’t be afraid to try new techniques, mix colors, or explore different subjects. Painting is a journey of self-expression, so allow yourself to experiment and enjoy the process.
He took up the offer to study abroad.
Taking up the opportunity to study abroad can be a life-changing experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in a different culture, gain new perspectives, and broaden your horizons. If you have been offered the chance to study abroad, here are some steps to make the most of it:
- Research your destination: Learn about the country, its culture, and any specific requirements or considerations for international students. Familiarize yourself with the educational institutions and programs available.
- Plan your finances: Understand the cost of living and tuition fees in your chosen destination. Budget for your expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and any additional study-related costs.
- Apply for scholarships or grants: Explore scholarship opportunities to help fund your study abroad experience. Many organizations and institutions offer scholarships specifically for international students.
- Organize your paperwork: Ensure that you have all the necessary documentation for your visa application and enrollment at the chosen institution. This may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and proof of financial support.
- Prepare for cultural adjustment: Be open-minded and prepare yourself for cultural differences and challenges. Research cultural norms, customs, and etiquette to ensure a smooth transition.
- Make the most of your experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture, participate in extracurricular activities, and build relationships with both local and international students. Take advantage of travel opportunities and explore the country.
11. Take for
- Meaning: To mistakenly interpret someone or something in a particular way.
- Example: She took his silence for indifference, but he was actually just deep in thought.
- Meaning: To deceive or trick someone.
- Example: The scam artist took in innocent victims by promising quick profits.
Summarizing, taking up painting as a hobby can be a creative outlet that allows you to explore your artistic side. If you have been offered the opportunity to study abroad, embrace the chance to immerse yourself in a different culture and expand your horizons. Also, be cautious not to misconstrue someone or be deceived by others.
Examples of “Take for”
Don’t take me for a fool.
When someone says “Don’t take me for a fool,” they are expressing their desire or expectation for you to not underestimate or deceive them. It is a warning that they are aware of what is happening and won’t be easily fooled or manipulated. Here are a few examples:
- “I may seem young, but don’t take me for a fool. I know exactly what you’re trying to do.”
- “He thought he could trick me into buying his worthless product, but I didn’t take him for a fool.”
- “She might appear naive, but don’t take her for a fool. She has a keen sense of intuition.”
I took her for an expert in the field.
When someone says “I took her for an expert in the field,” it means that they initially believed or assumed that she had extensive knowledge and expertise in a specific area. But, it turned out that their assumption was incorrect. Here are a few examples:
- “Based on her confident demeanor, I took her for an expert in the field, but her lack of knowledge became apparent during the discussion.”
- “His impressive resume led me to take him for an expert, but his inability to answer basic questions proved otherwise.”
- “Given her years of experience, I took her for an expert in marketing. But, her strategies were outdated and ineffective.”
To conclude, the phrasal verb “take for” is used to express not underestimating or deceiving someone, and to describe mistakenly assuming someone’s expertise in a particular area. It’s important to understand the context in which it is used to accurately convey your meaning.
Examples of “Take in”
Examples of “Take in”
When using the phrasal verb “take in,” it’s important to understand its different meanings and how it is used in various contexts. Here are a few examples to help you grasp its usage:
The hotel receptionist took in our reservation.
In this context, “take in” means to receive or accept something, in this case, a reservation. The hotel receptionist processed and acknowledged the reservation that was made.
She took in the breathtaking view from the mountaintop.
Here, “take in” means to appreciate or absorb something, typically using your senses. In this example, the person is admiring and fully enjoying the stunning view from the top of a mountain.
Remember, the meaning can change depending on the context in which “take in” is used.
Other Phrasal Verbs with “Take”
Now that you’ve seen some examples of “take in,” let’s explore a couple more phrasal verbs with “take”:
13. Take out on
This phrasal verb means to express anger, frustration, or negative emotions towards someone or something. For example:
- She’s had a difficult day at work, so don’t take it out on her.
- Instead of taking your stress out on others, find a healthy way to manage it.
14. Take to
“To take to” means to develop a liking or fondness for someone or something. Some examples include:
- I took to playing the piano after taking a few lessons.
- The puppy took to the new family member immediately.
Remember, phrasal verbs can have different meanings and may vary depending on the context in which they are used. So it’s important to consider the specific situation when using them in your own conversations or writing.
In this text, we have explored examples of the phrasal verb “take in” and introduced a couple of other phrasal verbs with “take.” By familiarizing yourself with these phrasal verbs and their meanings, you can enhance your understanding and usage of the English language.
Examples of “Take out on”
He’s upset, but don’t take it out on me.
When someone is upset or frustrated, it’s important not to direct those negative emotions towards others. “Taking it out on” someone means expressing anger or frustration towards them, even though they may not be the cause of those feelings. It’s essential to remember, the person being targeted is not responsible for the negative emotions and should not be treated poorly as a result.
For example:
- “I know you’re having a bad day, but please don’t take it out on me. I’m here to support you.”
- “If your boss yells at you, try not to take it out on your colleagues. They’re just trying to do their jobs.”
She always takes out her frustration on her children.
In some situations, people may use their loved ones as an outlet for their frustrations. “Taking out frustration on” someone means expressing anger or annoyance towards them, often in an unfair or disproportionate manner. It is important to recognize when this behavior is occurring and find healthier ways to manage and express frustration.
For example:
- “It’s not fair for her to take out her frustration on her children. They shouldn’t bear the brunt of her anger.”
- “Instead of yelling at your partner, it’s better to take a step back and find healthier ways to address your frustration.”
By understanding the concept of “taking out” negative emotions on others, we can strive to maintain healthier and more constructive relationships with those around us. It’s important to remember, everyone has their own challenges and that it’s not fair to impose our frustrations onto them.
Examples of “Take to”
She took to singing at a young age.
When someone “takes to” a hobby or activity, it means that they develop a liking or a fondness for it. In this example, the person started singing at a young age and found a passion for it. They enjoyed singing so much that it became a regular part of their life. “Taking to” something implies a natural affinity or enjoyment for a particular activity or interest.
They took to each other immediately.
When people “take to” each other, it means that they develop a connection or bond with one another quickly. In this example, the two individuals formed an instant liking or friendship. It suggests a natural and effortless compatibility between two people. “Taking to” someone refers to an immediate positive rapport or connection that develops between individuals.
15. Take over from
When someone “takes over from” another person, it means that they assume control or responsibility after someone else. This phrasal verb is commonly used in the context of transitions or handovers in work or organizational settings. It implies the transfer of authority or leadership from one person to another.
16. Take for granted
To “take something for granted” means to assume or expect something to always be available or present without appreciating or valuing it. This phrasal verb is often used to describe the tendency to overlook or not fully appreciate the value or importance of something. It serves as a reminder to acknowledge and be grateful for the things we have.
By understanding the different meanings and contexts in which the phrasal verb “take” is used, you can expand your knowledge of the English language and improve your communication skills. Remember to pay attention to the nuances and implications of each phrasal verb, as they can vary depending on the context in which they are used. With practice and exposure, you can confidently use these phrasal verbs in your conversations and writing.
Examples of “Take over from”
When someone takes over from another person, it means that they assume control or responsibility after them. This can happen in various contexts, such as work, organizations, or even personal situations. Here are a couple of examples illustrating the use of this phrasal verb:
The new teacher will take over from the retiring one.
Imagine a school where a beloved teacher has decided to retire after many years of dedicated service. In this case, the school administration needs to find a suitable replacement to continue the important work of educating students. The phrase “take over from” is used to describe the transition from the retiring teacher to the new one. It indicates that the new teacher will assume the responsibilities and duties of the retiring teacher, ensuring continuity in the classroom.
They asked her to take over from the current manager.
In a professional setting, it is not uncommon for changes to occur in leadership positions. Let’s say there is a company where the current manager is leaving for a new opportunity. In this situation, the company might ask another employee to step into the role of manager and take over from the current one. This phrasal verb emphasizes the transfer of authority and responsibility from one person to another, ensuring a smooth transition in managerial duties.
By using the phrasal verb “take over from,” we can clearly convey the idea of assuming control or responsibility after someone else. Whether it’s a new teacher taking over from a retiring one or an employee stepping in to fill a managerial role, understanding the correct usage of this phrasal verb is essential for effective communication.
Examples of “Take for granted”
When using the phrasal verb “take for granted,” it means to assume or expect something to always be available or present without appreciating or valuing it. This commonly used expression serves as a reminder to acknowledge and be grateful for the things we have. Here are a few examples of how this phrasal verb can be used:
- Taking Loved Ones for Granted: It’s easy to take your loved ones for granted when they are always there for you. We often assume that their presence and support will never waver, forgetting to appreciate the small acts of kindness or the time they dedicate to us. It’s important to express gratitude and not take their presence or efforts for granted.
- Taking Health for Granted: Many of us take our good health for granted until we face an illness or injury. We often overlook the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle or neglect to appreciate our bodies until it’s too late. It’s crucial to value our health and not take it for granted by practicing self-care, eating nutritious food, and staying active.
- Taking Opportunities for Granted: Sometimes, we become complacent and fail to recognize the opportunities that come our way. We may assume that future chances will arise, but life doesn’t always work that way. It’s essential to seize opportunities when they present themselves and not take them for granted. Whether it’s a job offer, a chance to travel, or an opportunity for personal growth, embracing these moments can lead to incredible experiences.
- Taking Nature for Granted: Our environment and the beauty of nature often go unnoticed and unappreciated in our busy lives. We may take for granted the clean air we breathe, the majestic landscapes, and the diverse wildlife. It’s crucial to recognize the importance of preserving nature, respecting the environment, and not taking its wonders for granted.
Remember, using the phrasal verb “take for granted” involves acknowledging the value of people, experiences, health, opportunities, and nature. By practicing gratitude and recognizing the significance of these aspects in our lives, we can avoid taking them for granted.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now learned 16 important phrasal verbs with the verb “take” in English. By understanding and using these phrasal verbs correctly, you can enhance your English language skills and improve your communication.
Throughout this article, we have explored the meanings and usage of various phrasal verbs, such as “take after,” “take apart,” “take away,” “take back,” “take down,” “take off,” “take on,” “take out,” “take over,” “take up,” “take for,” “take in,” “take out on,” “take to,” “take over from,” and “take for granted.”
Remember, context is key when using phrasal verbs. Pay attention to the specific meanings and nuances of each phrasal verb and use them appropriately in different situations.
By incorporating these phrasal verbs into your everyday conversations, you can sound more natural and fluent in English. Practice using them in sentences and try to incorporate them into your writing as well.
Continue to expand your knowledge of phrasal verbs and explore other topics in English language learning. With dedication and practice, you will become a confident and proficient English speaker.
Keep up the great work and happy learning!
