Phrasal verbs are an essential part of the English language, often leaving learners confused due to their sometimes idiomatic nature. One of the most versatile verbs used in phrasal verb combinations is “take.” In this blog post, we will explore common phrasal verbs with “take,” their meanings, and examples of how to use them in everyday speech and writing.
What Are Phrasal Verbs?
Before diving into specific examples, it’s important to understand what a phrasal verb is. Phrasal verbs consist of a verb followed by one or two particles (typically prepositions or adverbs). Together, they form a new meaning that is often different from the original verb alone. For example, “take off” means to leave the ground (as in an aeroplane), but “take” on its own means to grab something.
Common Phrasal Verbs with ‘Take’
Take After
- Meaning: To resemble someone in appearance or behaviour, usually a family member.
- Example: “She takes after her mother in both looks and personality.”
- Explanation: This phrasal verb is often used to talk about inherited traits. Whether it’s physical features or habits, “take after” refers to characteristics you get from your parents or ancestors.
Take Apart
- Meaning: To disassemble something into its individual parts.
- Example: “He took apart the old computer to see how it worked.”
- Explanation: This phrasal verb is often used in a literal sense when talking about dismantling objects, but it can also be used figuratively to mean criticising someone or something severely.
Take Back
- Meaning: To return something, or to retract a statement or comment.
- Example: “I need to take back this jumper because it’s too small.”
- Explanation: “Take back” can either be used when returning an item to a shop or when retracting something you’ve said.
Take Down
- Meaning: To remove something that’s been put up, or to write something down.
- Example: “Can you take down that poster? It’s been up for too long.”
- Example: “He took down notes during the lecture.”
- Explanation: This phrasal verb has two distinct uses: physically removing something or writing something for future reference.
Take In
- Meaning: To understand or absorb information, or to deceive someone.
- Example: “It was hard to take in all the information during the presentation.”
- Example: “She was taken in by the scam artist.”
- Explanation: “Take in” can be used positively to mean absorbing knowledge, but it can also have a negative connotation, meaning to be tricked or fooled.
Take Off
- Meaning: To rise into the air, or to become suddenly successful.
- Example: “The plane took off at exactly 9 am.”
- Example: “Her career really took off after she won the award.”
- Explanation: “Take off” can be used literally, as when a plane leaves the ground, or figuratively to describe sudden success.
Take On
- Meaning: To accept responsibility, work, or a challenge, or to compete against someone.
- Example: “He took on too much work and became overwhelmed.”
- Example: “The team is ready to take on their biggest rivals this weekend.”
- Explanation: “Take on” means to assume responsibilities or to challenge others, depending on the context.
Take Over
- Meaning: To assume control or responsibility for something.
- Example: “She took over the family business after her father retired.”
- Explanation: “Take over” is often used in the context of leadership or authority, indicating a shift in control.
Take Up
- Meaning: To start a new hobby, activity, or occupation, or to fill space or time.
- Example: “He’s taken up painting in his free time.”
- Example: “This desk takes up too much space in my room.”
- Explanation: “Take up” can refer to beginning a new hobby or describe something occupying space or time.
Take Out
- Meaning: To remove something, or to invite someone on a date.
- Example: “He took out the rubbish before leaving the house.”
- Example: “She’s taking him out for dinner tonight.”
- Explanation: “Take out” can be used in a domestic sense or in a social context, particularly when inviting someone out.
Mastering the Use of Phrasal Verbs
Now that we’ve looked at the meanings and uses of some common phrasal verbs with “take,” it’s important to consider how to master them in your daily communication. Here are a few tips:
- Practice in Context: Instead of memorising lists of phrasal verbs, try to use them in sentences that relate to your life. For example, if you enjoy sports, think of how you could use “take on” in that context (“We’re taking on a strong team this weekend”).
- Read and Listen Actively: Whether it’s reading articles or listening to podcasts, pay attention to how native speakers use phrasal verbs. This will help you understand the nuances of each one and how it’s used in real-life situations.
- Use a Dictionary: If you’re unsure about a phrasal verb’s meaning or usage, don’t hesitate to look it up. Many online dictionaries provide definitions and examples of phrasal verbs in context.
- Speak and Write Regularly: Practice makes perfect. Try incorporating these phrasal verbs into your conversations or writing to become more comfortable using them.
Empowering Your English with Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs are a very important part of English grammar, and understanding the various meanings of “take” in different contexts, together with other phrasal verbs, can help you increase your vocabulary. Regular exposure to these expressions, coupled with practice in everyday conversations, will enhance your language skills and boost your confidence.
Don’t let phrasal verbs be a stumbling block in your English proficiency journey. Whether you need help refining your academic assignments or with your business reports, we can help you. Contact us today, and let’s work together to elevate your writing to new heights.
