Correct spelling for take [Infographic]

take your time The definition of the idiom "take your time" is to do something slowly, without rushing or feeling pressured. It implies taking as much time as needed to complete a task or make a decision, emphasizing the importance of patience and thoroughness.

take that! "Take that!" is an idiom used to express satisfaction or triumph after delivering a blow or achieving a victory over someone or something. It is often used in a playful or taunting manner.

take time The idiom "take time" means to allow or allocate a sufficient amount of time for something or someone. It encourages patience and emphasizes the need to give things the attention and duration they require instead of rushing or hurrying through them.

take turn The idiom "take turns" means to alternate or go one after another in doing something. It refers to individuals or a group of people sharing a particular action or responsibility in a sequential manner.

take one's time The idiom "take one's time" means to not rush or hurry, but instead to proceed or complete something at a comfortable or leisurely pace. It implies the importance of not feeling pressured by urgency or time constraints and allowing oneself the necessary amount of time to accomplish a task or make a decision.

take wing The idiom "take wing" means to start flying or to begin a journey through the air, often referring to a bird or a plane taking flight. It can also be used figuratively to describe a person or an idea quickly gaining popularity or spreading rapidly.

take one's way The idiom "take one's way" typically means to embark or proceed on a personal choice or course of action, often disregarding external influences or opinions. It implies independently and confidently pursuing a chosen path.

take up The idiom "take up" can have several meanings depending on the context. Here are some commonly used definitions: 1. Engage in a new hobby or activity: To start or begin doing something for leisure or personal interest. Example: She decided to take up painting as a hobby after retiring. 2. Fill or occupy space: To use or utilize an area or time. Example: The new bookshelf took up a lot of space in the living room. 3. Accept a challenge or task: To assume or undertake a responsibility or duty. Example: John willingly took up the challenge of organizing the charity event. 4. Start a new course or study: To enroll or begin learning something. Example: After finishing high school

take a potshot at sm or sth The idiom "take a potshot at someone or something" means to make a quick, random, or unskillful attempt, typically with criticism, mockery, or even an actual physical attack. It is often used to describe someone taking a cheap or easy shot at someone or something, without much thought or effort.

take a bite of the reality sandwich The idiom "take a bite of the reality sandwich" means to accept or acknowledge a situation or unpleasant truth, especially after a period of denial or escapism. It implies facing the reality and accepting it, even if it might be difficult or unpleasant.

take the bit between your teeth, at get the bit between your teeth The idiom "take the bit between your teeth" or "get the bit between your teeth" refers to a person who seizes control of a situation or takes initiative to pursue a goal or objective with determination and without hesitation. It originates from horse riding, where a bit is the metal mouthpiece of a bridle that a rider uses to control the horse. When a horse takes the bit between its teeth, it takes control of the direction and speed of movement, ignoring the rider's commands. Thus, the idiom suggests someone being assertive and taking charge, even if it means going against the expected or established course of action.

take the long view (of something) The idiom "take the long view (of something)" refers to adopting a perspective that considers the future implications, consequences, or benefits of a situation or decision, rather than focusing solely on short-term gains or immediate outcomes. It emphasizes a broader and more strategic outlook, recognizing the potential long-term impact and planning accordingly.

take a shine to The idiom "take a shine to" means to develop a liking or attraction towards someone or something. It implies that someone is immediately drawn to or interested in someone or something upon initial interaction or exposure.

take charge (of sth) The idiom "take charge (of sth)" means to assume control or responsibility for a particular situation, task, or group of people. It implies being in a position of leadership or authority and actively managing or directing the course of events.

take an interest in sm or sth The idiom "take an interest in something or someone" means to show curiosity, concern, or engagement in a particular subject, activity, or person. It implies actively paying attention, seeking information, and investing time and effort to understand or support the matter of interest.

take sth on trust The idiom "take something on trust" means to believe or accept something without questioning or verifying its truth or validity. It involves relying on someone's word or assurance without demanding proof or evidence.

take someone in hand The idiom "take someone in hand" means to assume control or responsibility for someone, usually to guide or discipline them in a beneficial manner. It implies taking charge of someone's actions, behavior, or development for their improvement or education.

take a shine to somebody/something The idiom "take a shine to somebody/something" means to develop a positive liking or affection for someone or something. It implies an immediate or sudden attraction or admiration towards the person or object in question.

not take stock in (something) The idiom "not take stock in (something)" means to not believe in or have confidence in something. It suggests a lack of trust or faith in the value or importance of something.

take the measure of sb/sth The idiom "take the measure of someone/something" means to carefully evaluate or assess the true nature, capabilities, qualities, or characteristics of a person or thing. It refers to gaining a comprehensive understanding or knowledge about someone or something through observation or examination.

take it on (oneself) to (do something) The idiom "take it on (oneself) to (do something)" means to assume responsibility or initiative to perform a task or duty without being asked or directed to do so. It implies willingly taking on a responsibility or obligation that others may have neglected or overlooked.

take sth aloft The idiom "take sth aloft" typically refers to lifting or raising something, usually in a physical sense but sometimes metaphorically. It implies the action of elevating or hoisting an object or idea to a higher position or level.

follow/steer/take the middle course/way/path The idiom "follow/steer/take the middle course/way/path" means to adopt a moderate or balanced approach in a given situation or decision-making process. It suggests avoiding extreme positions or actions and choosing a middle ground that offers a reasonable compromise between opposing opinions or options.

take account of something The idiom "take account of something" means to consider or take into consideration a particular factor, aspect, or situation when making a decision or forming an opinion. It involves acknowledging the existence or importance of something and using that information to guide actions or judgments.

take sth apart The idiom "take something apart" means to disassemble or dismantle something, often an object or a mechanism, into its separate parts or components. It can also refer to scrutinizing, analyzing, or examining something in great detail in order to understand it better, find flaws, or discover underlying mechanisms.

take pride in sm or sth The idiom "take pride in something" means to feel satisfied or pleased about someone or something and have a strong sense of accomplishment or personal value in it. It refers to the feeling of pride or admiration one has towards a particular person, achievement, possession, or aspect of their life. It implies a deep sense of satisfaction and a high level of self-esteem related to the subject in question.

you canâ€™t take it with you The idiom "you can't take it with you" is a phrase that emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and wealth. It means that when a person dies, they cannot bring their material belongings or wealth into the afterlife or beyond. It often serves as a reminder that material possessions hold no value in the face of mortal existence and the inevitability of death.

take up residence The idiom "take up residence" means to establish or settle into a new living space or location, usually for an extended period of time.

take the shine off something The idiom "take the shine off something" means to diminish the attractiveness, value, or enjoyment of something. It suggests that something has become less impressive or appealing due to a negative or disappointing aspect.

take care of the pennies, and the pounds will look after themselves The idiom "take care of the pennies, and the pounds will look after themselves" suggests that by paying attention to the small and seemingly insignificant details or savings in life, one can achieve overall financial stability or success. It emphasizes the importance of being prudent and frugal with small amounts of money, as they can accumulate and eventually lead to greater wealth or financial well-being.

take a grip on (oneself) The idiom "take a grip on oneself" means to regain control over one's emotions, behavior, or actions. It refers to the ability to compose oneself, gain composure, or regain mental and emotional stability after experiencing a state of confusion, agitation, or distress. It implies taking charge of one's thoughts, emotions, and reactions in order to handle a situation more effectively.

take the consequences The idiom "take the consequences" means to accept or face the results or outcomes of one's actions, regardless of whether they are positive or negative. It implies a sense of responsibility and accountability for the choices made.

take a bite out of (something) The idiom "take a bite out of (something)" means to consume or use a portion of something, especially in a forceful or aggressive manner. It can also refer to making a significant impact or reducing the size or quantity of something.

take a licking and keep on ticking The idiom "take a licking and keep on ticking" means to endure hardships, setbacks, or physical punishment, yet persist or persevere without being defeated or giving up. It suggests resilience, strength, and the ability to bounce back from difficult situations. The phrase originated as a slogan for a popular watch brand, implying that the timepiece could withstand rough treatment and continue functioning accurately. Over time, it has been adopted in a broader sense to describe a person's ability to endure challenges and not be deterred by them.

Take your seat. The idiom "Take your seat" typically means to sit down or to occupy a designated place or position. It is often used in formal or organized settings to instruct someone to find and settle into their assigned seat, such as in classrooms, theaters, conferences, or events with assigned seating arrangements.

take the Fifth The idiom "take the Fifth" refers to invoking the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects individuals from self-incrimination. It means to refuse to answer a question or provide information that may expose oneself to criminal liability, typically in a legal or investigative setting.

take an early bath The idiom "take an early bath" typically means to exit or withdraw from a situation or competition prematurely, often due to failure or a poor performance.

take (great) pains (to do sth) The idiom "take (great) pains" means to make a significant effort or exert oneself in order to accomplish or achieve something. It implies that someone is being meticulous, careful, or thorough in their actions or approach to a task.

take (something) as gospel The idiom "take (something) as gospel" means to believe or accept something as completely true or unquestionable, without doubting or questioning its accuracy or validity. It implies blindly accepting information or advice without considering other possibilities or evidence that may contradict it. It is often used to describe someone who unquestioningly trusts or follows a particular source of information, such as a doctrine, religious text, or authoritative figure.

take revenge The idiom "take revenge" means to seek retaliation or do something in response to harm or wrong suffered in order to inflict harm or damage onto the person or party responsible for it.

take issue The idiom "take issue" means to disagree strongly with someone or something, and to express one's dissent or opposition.

take eyes off The idiom "take eyes off" means to divert one's attention away from something or someone for a short period of time. It implies a momentary distraction or lapse in focus.

take your leave The idiom "take your leave" refers to the act of departing or saying goodbye to someone or a group of people, usually in a polite or formal manner. It suggests taking one's departure from a social gathering, conversation, or event.

take turns doing something/to do something The idiom "take turns doing something/to do something" means to alternate or rotate with others in performing a particular action or task. It implies sharing the responsibility or opportunity equally among the individuals involved.

take a leaf from/out of somebodyâ€™s book The idiom "take a leaf from/out of somebodyâ€™s book" means to mimic or adopt someone's behavior, actions, or habits, usually because they have been successful or admirable in some way. It suggests learning from someone's example and emulating their positive qualities or approaches to accomplish similar outcomes.

take no account of sth The idiom "take no account of something" means to disregard, ignore, or not consider something as important or relevant. It implies that the mentioned thing or factor is not given any consideration, attention, or weight in a particular situation or decision-making process.

take a break The idiom "take a break" means to pause or temporarily stop doing an activity or task in order to rest, relax, or engage in a different activity for a short period of time.

take a jab at someone The idiom "take a jab at someone" means to make a critical or sarcastic comment about someone, often in a playful or teasing manner. It refers to poking fun at or mocking someone lightly, usually without the intention of causing offense.

take advantage (of sth) The idiom "take advantage of (something)" means to utilize or make the most of an opportunity or benefit that is available, often to gain an advantage or benefit oneself. It typically implies using a situation to achieve personal gain or benefit at the expense of others or the situation itself.

the devil take the hindmost The idiom "the devil take the hindmost" is a saying that conveys a ruthless or selfish attitude of prioritizing one's own interests without regard for others. It suggests that in a competitive situation, people should focus solely on their own success, even if it means disregarding or harming others in the process.

take (quite) a toll (on sm or sth) The idiom "take (quite) a toll (on sm or sth)" refers to the negative or damaging effects that something has on a person or thing, gradually wearing them down physically, emotionally, or mentally. It implies that the person or thing is experiencing significant hardships or challenges that are taking a noticeable toll on their well-being or functionality.

take the bull by the horns The idiom "take the bull by the horns" means to confront a problem or difficult situation directly and with confidence, rather than avoiding or neglecting it. It implies taking control or responsibility and facing challenges head-on, displaying courage and proactive behavior.

take something/somebody off somebody's hands The idiom "take something/somebody off somebody's hands" means to accept or assume responsibility for something or someone that someone else no longer wants or cannot handle. It implies relieving someone of the burden or duty associated with a particular object or person.

take your cue from someone The idiom "take your cue from someone" means to observe or follow someone's behavior, actions, or instructions in order to know how to act or respond in a certain situation. It implies taking guidance or direction from someone who has expertise, experience, or knowledge in a particular area.

take it from here The idiom "take it from here" means to continue or proceed with a task or responsibility that someone else has initiated or set up, usually after they have concluded their involvement or provided the necessary instructions or information. It is commonly used to suggest that one person will assume control or take over from another in a particular situation.

take the line of least resistance The idiom "take the line of least resistance" means to choose the easiest or most convenient option or course of action, often avoiding or minimizing conflicts, obstacles, or challenges. It suggests that someone is opting for the path of minimal effort or resistance in order to avoid confrontation or difficulties.

take a crap The idiom "take a crap" is a vulgar expression that refers to the act of defecation or having a bowel movement.

take a nosedive The idiom "take a nosedive" means to experience a sudden, rapid, and significant decline in quality, value, performance, or success. It often refers to a drastic and downward change or deterioration in a particular situation, such as financial markets, business profits, academic performance, or personal relationships.

take matters into your own hands The idiom "take matters into your own hands" means to assume responsibility or control over a situation or problem, rather than relying on others to solve it. It indicates the act of becoming proactive and taking action independently, often when it seems that others are unwilling or unable to address the issue effectively.

make/take soundings The idiom "make/take soundings" refers to the act of gathering opinions or making preliminary investigations to assess a situation or gather information before making a decision or taking action. It involves seeking input or conducting research to gather a sense of public opinion or to gauge the feasibility or potential outcome of a particular course of action. The term is derived from the practice of using a sounding line to measure the depth of water, indicating the need to gauge the conditions or opinions before proceeding forward.

take the brunt of (something) The idiom "take the brunt of (something)" means to bear the majority of the negative impact or suffer the most severe consequences of a certain situation, action, or event. It often implies being the primary target or enduring the most intense part of something, such as criticism, blame, responsibility, or physical force.

take a sledgehammer to crack a nut The idiom "take a sledgehammer to crack a nut" means to use excessive or unnecessary force or effort to solve a small or simple problem. It implies that the solution is disproportionate or overly complicated for the issue at hand.

have/take the shirt off sb's back The idiom "have/take the shirt off someone's back" means to take advantage of someone to such an extent that they are left without anything, even the bare essentials. It implies exploiting someone's generosity or kindness to the point of leaving them bereft of their belongings or resources.

take a fancy to somebody/something The idiom "take a fancy to somebody/something" means to become attracted to or develop a liking for someone or something, often without any specific reason or justification. It implies a sudden and often inexplicable fondness or interest in someone or something.

take a gander (at someone/something) The idiom "take a gander (at someone/something)" means to have a quick look or glance at someone or something. It implies taking a casual or brief observation, usually out of curiosity or interest.

take a piece out of The idiom "take a piece out of" means to strongly criticize, rebuke, or blame someone for a mistake or wrongdoing. It implies that the person being criticized is being figuratively attacked or reprimanded, often resulting in damage to their reputation or self-esteem.

take some heat The idiom "take some heat" means to face criticism, pressure, or backlash for one's actions, decisions, or opinions. It suggests experiencing the consequences, scrutiny, or disapproval from others in response to a particular situation or choice.

take the gilt off the gingerbread The idiom "take the gilt off the gingerbread" means to spoil or ruin something that initially appears appealing, impressive, or desirable by revealing flaws, faults, or unattractive aspects of it. It suggests the removal of the superficially attractive or enticing elements, exposing the underlying truth or reality.

take off (one's) hat (to someone or something) The idiom "take off (one's) hat (to someone or something)" means to express admiration, respect, or recognition for someone or something's achievements, qualities, or abilities. It originated from the act of removing one's hat as a gesture of deference or respect.

pay your money and take your choice The idiom "pay your money and take your choice" means that after paying for something, one can choose an option or course of action from the available alternatives. It suggests that once a financial commitment has been made, the decision or responsibility is in the hands of the person who paid.

take a knee The idiom "take a knee" refers to a symbolic act of kneeling down as a sign of respect, submission, or solidarity. It originated from the act of athletes or military personnel taking a knee during certain ceremonies or protests to express their support or protest against social injustice, inequality, or police brutality.

take notice (of sb/sth) The idiom "take notice (of sb/sth)" means to pay attention to someone or something, to acknowledge their presence or significance, or to give consideration to their actions or words.

take somebody for a ride The idiom "take somebody for a ride" means to deceive or trick someone, often by manipulating them or leading them to believe something that is not true in order to exploit or cheat them. It can also refer to taking someone on a unnecessary or pointless journey, typically with the intention of wasting their time or frustrating them.

give (one) an inch and (one) will take a mile The idiom "give (one) an inch and (one) will take a mile" means that if someone is given a small concession or opportunity, they will exploit it and demand or take much more than what was originally offered or intended. It highlights the tendency of some individuals to take advantage of any leniency or generosity displayed towards them.

take it into your head to do sth The idiom "take it into your head to do something" means to suddenly decide or have a strong urge to do something, often without any specific reason or explanation. It implies that the desire or idea originates from one's own thoughts or imagination, rather than being influenced by external factors.

take the cure The idiom "take the cure" refers to undergoing a period of rest, recovery, or rehabilitation, often to address a specific problem or heal from an illness or addiction. It implies the act of receiving treatment or making necessary lifestyle changes to improve one's physical or mental well-being.

take your (own) life The idiom "take your (own) life" refers to the act of committing suicide or ending one's own life intentionally.

take leave of one's senses The idiom "take leave of one's senses" means to become irrational, foolish, or crazy. It implies that someone has lost their rational thinking or logical reasoning abilities.

take to like a duck to water The idiom "take to like a duck to water" means to quickly and easily adapt to or become comfortable with something new or unfamiliar. It refers to the way a duck naturally and effortlessly takes to swimming in water, portraying a natural affinity or ability for a particular skill or situation.

take it out on The idiom "take it out on" means to direct one's anger, frustration, or stress towards someone or something that is not the cause of these emotions. It refers to the act of venting negative feelings onto an unrelated person or object as a way of coping or releasing built-up emotions.

take ill The idiom "take ill" means to become sick or fall ill. It describes the onset or occurrence of an illness or health problem.

take a (or someone's) life The idiom "take a (or someone's) life" is typically used to refer to the act of ending someone's life or causing their death. It can be both literal, describing a physical act of killing, or figurative, referring to something that has a severely detrimental effect on a person's well-being or existence. In its literal sense, it denotes the termination of an individual's existence, while in a figurative sense, it implies doing something that destroys or ruins someone's life or livelihood.

take the heat The idiom "take the heat" means to accept or handle criticism, blame, or pressure in a difficult or challenging situation.

take in sail The idiom "take in sail" typically means to reduce the size or extent of one's plans, ambitions, or efforts. It originates from sailing terminology where it refers to the act of reducing the size of a sail to adapt to changing wind conditions or to control the speed of a boat. In a figurative sense, "take in sail" suggests the act of slowing down, scaling back, or exercising caution in order to adapt to circumstances or avoid overexertion.

not take kindly to sb/sth The idiom "not take kindly to sb/sth" means to react or respond unfavorably or negatively towards someone or something. It implies that the person does not appreciate or approve of the person or situation in question.

take leave of your senses The idiom "take leave of your senses" means to behave in a way that is irrational, illogical, or completely out of character. It suggests that a person is no longer thinking clearly or sensibly.

take centre stage The idiom "take centre stage" refers to when someone or something becomes the main focus or the most prominent element in a particular situation or event. It means to be at the forefront or receive the most attention and become the central point of interest.

will not take no for an answer The idiom "will not take no for an answer" means that someone is determined and persistent in getting what they want, and will not accept refusal or rejection. They are unwilling to accept the answer "no" and will continue to pursue their desired outcome.

take the heat off (of) sm or sth The idiom "take the heat off (of) someone or something" means to relieve or reduce pressure, criticism, or attention directed towards a person or situation. It could involve diverting blame, deflecting criticism, or offering a distraction to shift focus away from the individual or issue in question.

take an axe to The idiom "take an axe to" refers to the act of dismantling or destroying something completely or in a forceful manner. It implies taking decisive and often ruthless action to get rid of a problem, obstacle, or situation.

take the law into one's hands The idiom "take the law into one's hands" means to act as judge, jury, and executioner without legal authority, often to seek justice or revenge on someone whom one believes has done wrong. It refers to the act of bypassing the established legal system and attempting to administer justice oneself.

you can dish it out, but you can't take it The idiom "you can dish it out, but you can't take it" means that a person is able to criticize or insult others freely, but cannot accept or handle the same treatment in return. It implies that the person is comfortable being offensive or confrontational but becomes defensive or emotional when faced with similar behavior directed towards them.

take the line/path of least resistance The idiom "take the line/path of least resistance" refers to choosing the easiest or most effortless option when faced with a decision or obstacle. It implies avoiding challenges, opposition, or potential conflicts in order to achieve a desired outcome with minimum effort or resistance.

(go and) take a running jump The idiom "(go and) take a running jump" is a colloquial and often dismissive phrase used to tell someone to go away or leave, usually in a rude or confrontational manner. It implies a sense of annoyance, frustration, or disregard towards the person being spoken to. In essence, it suggests that the speaker wants the recipient to physically distance themselves from the situation or person.

take someone into one's confidence The idiom "take someone into one's confidence" means to trust and confide in someone by sharing personal or sensitive information with them. It involves sharing secrets or private matters with someone, often seeking their advice or understanding.

take a/its toll The idiom "take a toll" or "take its toll" means to have a negative or harmful effect on something or someone over a period of time, usually resulting in a deterioration or damage. It implies that there are consequences or repercussions that can be seen or felt.

take down a peg The idiom "take down a peg" means to humiliate or lower someone's status or self-importance, typically by criticizing or humble them. It refers to the act of decreasing the level of someone's arrogance or pride.

not take your eyes off sb/sth The idiom "not take your eyes off sb/sth" means to continuously watch or closely monitor someone or something without diverting your attention. It implies being extremely attentive and vigilant, typically in situations where there is a risk or something important that requires constant observation.

can't take it with you The idiom "can't take it with you" means that you cannot bring your possessions or wealth with you after death. It implies that material belongings are transient and ultimately unimportant in the grand scheme of life. The phrase suggests that it is better to focus on experiences, relationships, and intangible aspects of life rather than solely accumulating wealth.

give with one hand and take away with the other The idiom "give with one hand and take away with the other" refers to the act of giving something beneficial or advantageous to someone, but then taking it back or counteracting it by doing something that negates the initial benefit, often resulting in no progress or improvement.

take somebody out of himself, herself, etc. The idiom "take somebody out of himself, herself, etc." means to distract or divert someone's attention or thoughts from their own worries, problems, or preoccupations. It is often used to describe an activity or experience that helps someone temporarily escape their own self-consciousness or introspection.

take offense The idiom "take offense" means to feel angry, insulted, or hurt by something someone says or does. It refers to the act of perceiving a remark or action as personally offensive, even if it may not have been intended that way.

take on a new significance The idiom "take on a new significance" means that something acquires or assumes a different or deeper meaning or importance. It implies that an event, object, or statement is interpreted or understood in a different or more profound way than before.

take sb's word for it, at take sb at their word The idiom "take someone's word for it" or "take someone at their word" means to believe or trust what someone says without questioning or verifying it. It implies accepting their statement as true based solely on their assurance or reputation.

take sth at face value The idiom "take something at face value" means to accept or believe something exactly as it appears or is presented, without questioning or considering any hidden or underlying meanings or motives.

take umbrage The idiom "take umbrage" means to feel offended, insulted, or to take offense at something that has been said or done.

take no prisoners The idiom "take no prisoners" means to be relentless, aggressive, or unforgiving in pursuing a goal or overcoming obstacles, without showing any mercy or consideration for the opposition. It implies a determined and forceful approach where no one is spared or shown any leniency. This idiom is often used in contexts where extreme measures are taken to achieve success or domination, regardless of the consequences.

take wrong The idiom "take wrong" means to misinterpret or misunderstand something someone has said or done, usually perceiving it in a negative or offensive way, when it was not intended that way. It refers to the act of not understanding someone's intention correctly and therefore becoming upset or offended.

take up the challenge The idiom "take up the challenge" means to willingly accept and confront a difficult task, situation, or problem with determination and courage. It implies being willing to put oneself to the test and take on a demanding or daunting challenge.

take to The idiom "take to" means to develop a liking or interest in something or someone; to start doing a particular activity or behaving in a certain way. It suggests that one has shown a natural inclination or fondness towards the subject or action.

take somebody's breath away The idiom "take somebody's breath away" generally refers to an experience or sight that leaves someone feeling extremely amazed, awestruck, or stunned. It denotes a reaction of being so overwhelmed or mesmerized by something that it momentarily takes your breath away.

take sb's breath away The idiom "take someone's breath away" means to astonish or impress someone greatly, causing them to be momentarily speechless or breathless due to the sheer beauty, grandeur, or unexpectedness of something.

take sm doing The idiom "take someone doing" typically means to endure or tolerate someone's behavior or actions, usually when they are annoying, irritating, or causing trouble. It suggests putting up with someone's behavior rather than confronting or stopping them.

take pot luck The idiom "take pot luck" refers to accepting or experiencing something without knowing what to expect or having any particular preference or choice. It typically implies being willing to accept things as they come, leaving the outcome or selection up to chance or fate.

take the words out of sb's mouth The idiom "take the words out of sb's mouth" means to say exactly what someone else was about to say, often expressing agreement or understanding of their thoughts or opinions without them having to say it. It signifies a strong level of similarity or coincidence in thinking or expressing oneself.

take a dig at The idiom "take a dig at" means to make a critical or mocking comment about someone or something, usually in a subtle or indirect way. It refers to making a snide remark or sarcastic observation in order to belittle or criticize someone.

take a (financial) bath The idiom "take a (financial) bath" means to suffer a significant financial loss or setback, often due to a poor investment or business decision. It implies losing a substantial amount of money or experiencing a financial disaster.

take a chance (on something) The idiom "take a chance (on something)" means to risk or gamble on something, often involving uncertainty or potential negative outcomes. It involves taking a leap of faith or making a bold decision with the hope of a positive outcome, despite the possibility of failure or adverse consequences.

take sth for granted The idiom "take something for granted" means to consider something as normal, expected, or guaranteed, usually without fully appreciating or expressing gratitude for it. It refers to not recognizing the value or importance of something until it is no longer available or when it becomes evident that it is not guaranteed.

take a gamble The idiom "take a gamble" means to take a risk or chance on something, often with uncertain or unpredictable outcomes. It refers to engaging in an activity or making a decision where the outcome is uncertain or potentially harmful, but with the hope of gaining some advantage or achieving a desired outcome.

take pains over sth The idiom "take pains over something" means to expend great effort, care, or attention on a particular task or matter. It suggests that someone is making a conscious and deliberate effort to ensure the best possible outcome or result.

take the plunge The idiom "take the plunge" means to bravely or decisively embark on a new or risky venture, typically involving a significant commitment or change in one's life. It often implies overcoming fear, hesitation, or uncertainty and having the courage to take a leap of faith or make a big decision.

take one's leave The idiom "take one's leave" means to say goodbye or depart from a place or person. It refers to the act of formally or politely bidding farewell.

take one's breath away The idiom "take one's breath away" means to cause astonishment, awe, or surprise. It refers to something that is so beautiful, amazing, or unexpected that it leaves a person speechless or momentarily unable to breathe due to the strong emotions evoked.

take a guess The idiom "take a guess" means to make an attempt at answering a question or solving a problem without having enough information or certainty. It is asking someone to make an estimation or provide a response based on their intuition rather than factual knowledge.

take the stage The idiom "take the stage" means to begin or assume a position or role in front of an audience, typically in a performance or public speaking context. It is often used to describe someone who is about to start performing, speaking, or taking a leading role in a public event.

take issue with sm The idiom "take issue with someone" means to disagree, challenge, or express opposition to someone's opinion, statement, or actions. It implies a disagreement or conflict with someone's viewpoint or behavior and can lead to a debate, argument, or discussion.

have/take pride of place The idiom "have/take pride of place" refers to something that holds the most prominent or important position or role among other things. It signifies a sense of pride and recognition in being the foremost or most esteemed item or element in a collection, arrangement, or situation.

double take The idiom "double take" refers to the act of quickly looking back or taking a second glance at something surprising, shocking, unexpected, or inexplicable, often causing confusion or disbelief.

take the ball before the bound The idiom "take the ball before the bound" refers to being proactive or taking action before it becomes necessary. It means to foresee a problem or situation and address it in advance, preventing any negative consequences or difficulties that may arise.

take up the gauntlet The idiom "take up the gauntlet" means to accept a challenge or provocation, often in a public or defiant way. The phrase originated from the medieval custom of throwing down a gauntlet, or armored glove, as a challenge, and the recipient would pick it up to accept the challenge. So, figuratively taking up the gauntlet refers to agreeing to face a challenge or confrontation.

take a dig at sm The idiom "take a dig at someone" means to make a sarcastic or critical remark about someone, usually in a light-hearted or playful manner. It refers to the act of teasing or poking fun at someone, often aiming to provoke a reaction or show superiority.

take (one) down memory lane The idiom "take (one) down memory lane" refers to the act of reminiscing or guiding someone through a sequence of memories, often from the past. It involves evoking nostalgic or sentimental emotions and sharing experiences or anecdotes related to a specific time, place, or event.

take some doing The idiom "take some doing" is used to describe a task or action that requires a significant amount of effort, time, or difficulty to be accomplished. It implies that the task is challenging or will not be easily achieved.

take the edge off sth The idiom "take the edge off something" means to relieve or reduce the intensity or harshness of a situation, feeling, or experience. It refers to taking measures to make something less severe, extreme, or uncomfortable, thereby making it more manageable or tolerable.

take the weight off (one's) feet The idiom "take the weight off (one's) feet" means to sit down and rest, especially after standing for a long period of time.

accept/take sth on faith The idiom "accept/take something on faith" means to believe or trust something without requiring evidence or proof. It refers to having faith or confidence in the truth or validity of a statement, idea, or concept, even in the absence of tangible evidence or logical reasoning.

take the game to The idiom "take the game to" typically means to actively initiate or push forward a competitive, intense, or proactive approach in a situation, particularly in sports or business-related contexts. It refers to being the driving force or aggressively seeking progress or success rather than merely responding or passively waiting for opportunities.

take sth amiss The idiom "take something amiss" refers to someone misinterpreting or being offended by something that was said or done. It means to perceive or react negatively to a remark, action, or situation in a way that was not intended by the speaker or initiator of the action.

take someone for an idiot and take someone for a fool "Take someone for an idiot" and "take someone for a fool" are idiomatic expressions that mean to underestimate someone's intelligence or treat them as if they are foolish or gullible. It implies that the person being deceived or underestimated is not taken seriously, their abilities or knowledge are undervalued, and they are being treated as easily manipulated or tricked.

take heart The idiom "take heart" means to gain courage, find hope, or feel encouraged in a difficult or challenging situation. It implies finding comfort and reassurance to face adversity or maintain a positive outlook.

take center stage The idiom "take center stage" refers to someone or something becoming the main focus or receiving the most attention in a particular situation or event. It is often used to describe a person or thing that becomes the central point of interest or takes a prominent position in a given context.

Don't take any wooden nickels The idiom "Don't take any wooden nickels" means to be cautious, wary, or vigilant in one's dealings or interactions, so as not to be deceived, cheated, or taken advantage of. It advises someone to be careful and not trust everything at face value.

(let) the devil take the hindmost The idiom "let the devil take the hindmost" can be defined as a statement or philosophy that conveys a callous or self-centered attitude. It implies that one is willing to prioritize their own interests and safety above all else, even if it means disregarding or abandoning others. This phrase often reflects a lack of compassion or empathy for others and can sometimes be used to describe a ruthless or cutthroat mentality.

take a long, hard look at The idiom "take a long, hard look at" means to carefully and critically examine something or someone, typically with the intention of gaining deep understanding or finding faults, shortcomings, or solutions. It suggests looking beyond superficial aspects and analyzing with seriousness and thoroughness.

take action against sm or sth The idiom "take action against someone or something" means to initiate or undertake measures to address, oppose, or rectify a particular person or situation. It implies actively doing something in response to a problem or wrongdoing, such as seeking legal recourse, implementing corrective measures, or launching a campaign to bring about change or accountability.

take years off The idiom "take years off" typically means to make someone appear or feel younger or fresher by improving their physical or mental well-being, or by reducing stress or fatigue.

take a cold shower The idiom "take a cold shower" typically means to calm down or control one's emotions, especially when they are aroused or overwhelmed. It is often used to suggest that someone needs to cool off or regain composure.

take sb under your wing The idiom "take sb under your wing" means to mentor, guide, or protect someone, especially someone younger or less experienced, by offering them support and advice. It implies taking someone in and providing them with a nurturing and supportive environment, similar to a bird protecting and guiding its young under its wing.

take around The idiom "take around" typically refers to the act of showing or guiding someone or something to various places or locations. It involves physically or figuratively leading someone around a particular area, often for their understanding, exploration, or enjoyment.

take a back seat The idiom "take a back seat" refers to the act of assuming a less important or prominent role in a situation or activity. It means to take a subordinate position, allowing others to take the lead or be in the spotlight.

take a load off your feet The idiom "take a load off your feet" means to sit down and rest, typically after standing or walking for a long period of time. It implies the need to relax and relieve oneself of physical fatigue.

take an eye for an eye The idiom "take an eye for an eye" refers to seeking revenge or retaliation in a manner that parallels the harm or wrongdoing inflicted upon oneself. It expresses the concept of seeking justice by returning the same kind of harm or injury that one has suffered. The phrase is derived from the principle of retributive justice, where punishment is given in proportion to the offense committed.

take a trip (or walk) down memory lane The idiom "take a trip (or walk) down memory lane" refers to the act of revisiting or reminiscing about past memories or experiences, often in a nostalgic manner. It involves recalling or discussing events, people, places, or things from the past to evoke a sense of nostalgia or sentimentality.

take your life in your hands The idiom "take your life in your hands" means to engage in a highly risky or dangerous action or endeavor, usually with full awareness of the potential consequences. It implies assuming complete responsibility for one's own safety or well-being.

take control of sm or sth The idiom "take control of someone or something" means to assume command or authority over someone or something, and to direct or manage their actions or decisions. It implies asserting oneself as the dominant force in a situation and exercising power or leadership to guide the outcome or direction.

take (or leave) the field The idiom "take (or leave) the field" refers to making a decision or taking action, often with determination and confidence. It originates from the world of sports, specifically team sports played on a field. When a player or a team "takes the field," it means they are ready and willing to participate in the game, demonstrating their commitment and readiness. Hence, the idiom is used metaphorically to encourage someone to actively engage or take action in a situation, making it clear that the choice is entirely up to them.

take up arms (against somebody) The idiom "take up arms (against somebody)" means to prepare for or engage in a fight, conflict, or war against someone. It implies being actively involved in using weapons or military means to oppose or attack an enemy or adversary.

take your hat off to someone The idiom "take your hat off to someone" means to show admiration, respect, or praise for someone's achievements, abilities, or qualities. It suggests giving someone the highest level of acknowledgement or appreciation.

take leave of senses The idiom "take leave of senses" means to lose one's rationality, sanity, or logic. It refers to someone becoming irrational, acting crazy, or making foolish decisions.

take a hammering The idiom "take a hammering" means to be severely criticized, challenged, or beaten, usually in a competitive context. It implies undergoing intense pressure or facing significant difficulties that may result in physical, emotional, or financial damage.

take issue with (someone or something) The idiom "take issue with (someone or something)" means to disagree with, challenge, or have a difference of opinion or perspective with someone or something. It implies expressing criticism, objection, or opposition regarding a particular matter, idea, statement, or action.

take to sth like a duck to water The idiom "take to sth like a duck to water" means to quickly and naturally become comfortable or skilled at something without much effort. It describes someone's ability to adapt or fit in easily, as effortlessly as a duck takes to swimming in water.

get/take (the) flak The idiom "get/take (the) flak" means to face criticism, blame, or negative consequences for something done or said. It originates from the military slang term "flak," which refers to anti-aircraft fire or criticism. Therefore, when someone "gets or takes (the) flak," they are experiencing a figurative barrage of negative feedback or consequences.

take a fit The definition of the idiom "take a fit" is to have an episode of intense emotion or uncontrolled behavior, often characterized by anger, frustration, or excitement.

take your cue from To "take your cue from" means to observe or imitate the actions, behaviors, or words of another person in order to know what you should do or how you should behave in a particular situation. It suggests that you follow another person's lead or guidance to understand what is expected or appropriate in a given circumstance.

take issue with sth To "take issue with something" means to disagree with or challenge it, especially by stating one's objections or criticisms. It implies expressing a contrary viewpoint or confronting a problem, often resulting in a debate or argument.

take a bead on someone/something The idiom "take a bead on someone/something" means to aim or focus on someone or something, often with the intention of closely observing or targeting them. It usually implies a deliberate action of directing attention or preparing to take action. The phrase is derived from the practice of using a bead or a small notch as a sighting device on a firearm to achieve accuracy while aiming.

take aim at somebody/something The idiom "take aim at somebody/something" means to criticize or target someone or something with intention or purpose. It often implies a deliberate effort to expose weaknesses, faults, or shortcomings.

take (one's) eye off the ball The idiom "take (one's) eye off the ball" means to become distracted or lose focus on something important. It is often used in sports contexts, referring to a player who loses focus on the ball and makes a mistake as a result. In a broader sense, it can also refer to anyone who loses focus or concentration on a task, goal, or situation, leading to errors or missed opportunities.

take something with a pinch of salt The idiom "take something with a pinch of salt" means to interpret or regard something with skepticism or caution. It suggests not readily believing or trusting something completely, but instead maintaining a healthy level of skepticism or doubt.

take the bad with the good The idiom "take the bad with the good" means that one should accept both the negative and positive aspects of a situation, recognizing that they often come together and cannot be separated. It highlights the idea that life is filled with both ups and downs, and that it is necessary to embrace difficulties or setbacks along with the positive experiences.

take own life The idiom "take own life" refers to the act of intentionally causing one's own death, usually through suicide.

take/get a pounding The idiom "take/get a pounding" means to suffer a severe defeat, punishment, or physical exertion, typically resulting in a significant loss or damage. It can be used in various contexts, such as sports, business, or personal situations, to describe a situation where someone or something is being heavily attacked, beaten, or overpowered.

take with a grain of salt The definition of the idiom "take with a grain of salt" is to not completely believe or trust something, to be skeptical about it, to consider it with caution or skepticism.

take sth under advisement The idiom "take something under advisement" means to consider or ponder upon something before making a decision or giving a response. It suggests that the person will carefully think about the matter, take into account various factors, and then come to a decision or judgment. It implies a thoughtful examination of the issue at hand rather than a hasty or immediate response.

take (one) at (one's) word The idiom "take (one) at (one's) word" means to believe what someone says without questioning or doubting them. It implies accepting their words as true and acting accordingly based on that belief. It can also suggest that one should trust and rely on someone's promises or commitments.

take something with a pinch (or grain) of salt The idiom "take something with a pinch (or grain) of salt" means that one should be skeptical or cautious about accepting or believing information, especially if it appears exaggerated, uncertain, or unreliable. It suggests that the information should be taken with a degree of skepticism, as one would when using a pinch (or grain) of salt to enhance the taste of food.

It will take sm doing The idiom "It will take some doing" is used to convey that a task or accomplishment will require considerable effort, time, or skill to achieve. It implies that the endeavor is challenging, complex, or demanding.

take the wind out of sails The idiom "take the wind out of sails" means to deflate someone's enthusiasm, confidence, or excitement, typically by saying or doing something unexpected or disappointing. It refers to stealing someone's thunder or spoiling their plans or accomplishments.

take a bawling out The idiom "take a bawling out" means to receive a severe or harsh scolding or reprimand from someone. It implies being subjected to a loud, forceful, and intense dressing-down or admonishment, usually for making a mistake, displaying incompetence, or behaving inappropriately.

take advantage of something The idiom "take advantage of something" means to utilize or make use of a situation, opportunity, or resource in a way that benefits oneself or gains an advantage. It often implies using something to its fullest potential for personal gain.

take the cake The idiom "take the cake" is used to describe someone or something that is the most extreme or excessive in a negative way. It implies that the person or thing has surpassed all others in a particular context, often exhibiting unexpected or undesired behavior, qualities, or characteristics.

take seriously The definition of the idiom "take seriously" is to consider something or someone with importance, respect, or earnestness, instead of dismissing or underestimating them.

take issue with The idiom "take issue with" means to disagree or challenge something, usually in a confrontational or argumentative manner. It implies an objection or opposition to a particular statement, belief, or viewpoint.

able to take a joke The idiom "able to take a joke" refers to a person's ability to have a sense of humor and not get easily offended or upset when somebody teases, plays a prank, or makes a humorous comment about them. It implies that the person can handle humor directed at them without getting defensive or taking it too seriously.

take a load off (one's feet) The idiom "take a load off (one's feet)" means to find a place to sit down and relax, typically after a period of standing or walking. It is an expression used to suggest resting and relieving oneself from physical strain or exhaustion.

take up arms The idiom "take up arms" means to prepare for or engage in a battle, conflict, or war. It involves actively fighting or joining a military campaign or armed resistance against someone or something.

take sth/sb into account The idiom "take something/somebody into account" means to consider or include something or someone when making a decision or judgment. It suggests acknowledging or factoring in relevant information, opinions, or circumstances before reaching a conclusion or taking action.

take the lead The idiom "take the lead" refers to assuming control, authority, or responsibility in a particular situation or endeavor. It means to be at the forefront or in the first position, guiding and showing the way for others to follow.

take a stab at (something) The idiom "take a stab at (something)" means to make an attempt or effort at doing something, even if it is uncertain or involves taking a risk. It implies trying without complete knowledge or confidence, often in a trial and error manner.

take the heat off (of) (someone or something) The idiom "take the heat off (of) (someone or something)" means to relieve or redirect pressure, blame, or attention away from a person or situation. It implies lessening the intensity of a difficult or challenging situation for someone or something.

take care of The idiom "take care of" means to assume responsibility for something or someone, to provide for their needs, protect them, or ensure their well-being.

take it upon yourself/itself to do sth The idiom "take it upon yourself/itself to do something" means to undertake or assume a responsibility or task without being asked or instructed to do so. It implies taking initiative and personal responsibility for completing a particular action or fulfilling a certain duty independently.

take care of yourself/somebody/something The idiom "take care of yourself/somebody/something" means to ensure the well-being, safety, or proper functioning of yourself, someone else, or something. It signifies the act of providing protection, attention, or necessary actions to ensure that the person or thing remains safe, healthy, or in good condition.

take a dirt nap The idiom "take a dirt nap" is a colloquial expression that refers to someone's death or demise. It implies that the person is lying or resting in the ground after being buried in a grave, emphasizing a permanent state of rest. It is typically used informally and sometimes with a hint of sarcasm or dark humor.

take charge (of sm or sth) The idiom "take charge (of sm or sth)" means to assume control or responsibility over someone or something. It implies taking the initiative and being in a position of authority or leadership.

take (a)hold The idiom "take (a) hold" means to establish a strong and secure grip or control over something, whether it's a physical object or a situation. It implies exerting authority, dominance, or possession.

take breath away The idiom "take breath away" means to astonish or overwhelm someone with wonder, surprise, or admiration.

take someone to task The idiom "take someone to task" means to reprimand or criticize someone for their actions, behavior, or mistakes. It involves holding someone accountable for their actions and demanding an explanation or remedy for any wrongdoing.

take sm beating The idiom "take a beating" means to endure criticism, punishment, or a difficult situation, usually involving physical or emotional pain. It implies facing a challenging situation or setback without giving up or complaining.

take a leaf out of someone's book The idiom "take a leaf out of someone's book" means to imitate or follow someone's example or behavior because they have been successful or wise in a certain aspect or situation. It suggests learning from someone's actions or approach in order to achieve a similar positive outcome.

take advantage of sm The idiom "take advantage of someone" means to exploit or use someone's weaknesses or vulnerabilities for personal gain or benefit, often without their consent or knowledge. It implies maximizing one's own interests at the expense of someone else's well-being or rights.

take hold of sm or sth The idiom "take hold of someone or something" means to grab, seize, or grasp someone or something firmly with one's hands. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate the act of gaining control or understanding of a situation, concept, or idea.

take away from The idiom "take away from" generally means to diminish or lessen the value, importance, or impact of something. It implies that something is detracted, subtracted, or diminished in some way, thereby reducing its overall quality, significance, or effectiveness.

take kindly to (something) The idiom "take kindly to (something)" means to be accepting or favorable towards something or someone. It implies having a positive or welcoming attitude, usually regarding a particular action, behavior, or situation.

take by surprise The definition of the idiom "take by surprise" is to catch someone off guard or unexpectedly.

take the bit in one's teeth The idiom "take the bit in one's teeth" comes from horseback riding and refers to a situation where a horse grabs the bit (the metal piece in its mouth) and takes control of its direction, ignoring the rider's commands. In a figurative sense, the idiom means to assert one's independence, act on one's own accord, or pursue a course of action without considering others' advice or guidance. It implies a situation where someone shows strong determination or takes charge, often against the opinions or wishes of others.

take liberties with sth The idiom "take liberties with sth" means to behave or act in a way that is considered bold, presumptuous, or disrespectful towards something, such as rules, guidelines, someone's property, or a person's ideas. It implies disregarding boundaries, rules, or norms in order to suit one's own desires or agenda.

Take a hike/walk! The idiom "take a hike/walk" is an informal and somewhat rude way of telling someone to leave or go away. It is often used when someone is annoying, bothering, or not wanted in a particular situation.

if you take my meaning The idiom "if you take my meaning" is a phrase used to suggest that the speaker is implying something indirectly or subtly. It typically invites the listener to interpret or understand the intended message behind what has been said. It is often used when discussing a sensitive subject or expressing a veiled opinion.

take silk The idiom "take silk" refers to the elevation of a barrister to the status of Queen's Counsel (QC), a distinguished position in the legal profession. It derives from the traditional practice of QCs wearing a silk gown while in court, distinguishing them from ordinary barristers who wore a gown made of cotton. Therefore, "take silk" means to be appointed as a QC, signifying the recognition of a barrister's exceptional proficiency and expertise.

take sb to the cleaners The idiom "take someone to the cleaners" means to defeat or outwit someone decisively, especially in a financial context. It often refers to taking advantage of someone in a financial transaction, resulting in the person losing a significant amount of money or assets.

take a lot out of The idiom "take a lot out of" means to exhaust or deplete someone physically, mentally, or emotionally, often as a result of a demanding or challenging experience or task. It suggests that an individual's energy, strength, or resources have been significantly reduced or drained due to the exertion or stress encountered.

take sm or sth by storm The idiom "take someone or something by storm" means to have a sudden, forceful, and overwhelming success or impact on someone or something. It refers to a situation where something or someone becomes extremely popular, successful, or influential in a very short period of time. It often implies that the person or thing involved captures the attention, admiration, or interest of others in a rapid and remarkable way.

take sb aside The idiom "take someone aside" means to lead or pull someone away from a group or a conversation to speak with them privately or discreetly. It involves removing someone from the current situation in order to have a confidential conversation or provide personal advice or guidance.

Give sm an inch and he'll take a mile. The idiom "Give someone an inch and he'll take a mile" means that if you grant someone a small opportunity or concession, they will exploit it to gain much more than you originally intended or expected to give them. It suggests that someone will take advantage of a small favor or leniency to their advantage, pushing boundaries and demanding more than they deserve or rightfully should.

(someone's) take on (something) The idiom "someone's take on (something)" refers to an individual's perspective, opinion, or interpretation of a particular subject or issue. It suggests that everyone may have their unique viewpoint or understanding of a matter, and it highlights the diversity of perspectives among people.

take a spill The idiom "take a spill" means to fall down or to have a fall, often resulting in injury or clumsiness.

take sth lying down The idiom "take sth lying down" means to accept or endure something unpleasant, unfair, or insulting without putting up any resistance or protest.

take somebody as you find them The idiom "take somebody as you find them" means to accept someone for who they are without trying to change them or make judgments based on superficial impressions or preconceived notions. It implies that one should embrace people as they are without attempting to impose expectations or desire them to conform to certain standards.

take (something) on faith The idiom "take (something) on faith" means to accept or believe in something without evidence or proof. It implies having trust or confidence in someone or something's reliability or truthfulness, even in the absence of concrete proof or evidence.

take something into account The idiom "take something into account" means to consider or factor in something when making a decision or judgment. It implies that all relevant information or factors are being weighed and considered in order to arrive at a well-informed conclusion.

take home The definition of the idiom "take home" is to understand or comprehend the main point or lesson of something. It refers to gaining a clear understanding of what is being communicated or learned, often with the purpose of applying it in practical situations.

take a shot at sth The idiom "take a shot at something" means to make an attempt or try at doing something. It suggests giving it a try, even if success is uncertain or the outcome may not be favorable.

take the load off The idiom "take the load off" means to relieve oneself of a burden, responsibility, or stress. It can also refer to taking a break or relaxing after a period of exertion or hard work.

can take (something) to the bank The idiom "can take (something) to the bank" means that something is certain, reliable, or guaranteed to happen. It implies that the information or guarantee is trustworthy and can be completely relied upon, similar to taking money to the bank for safekeeping.

take (one) to the cleaners The idiom "take (one) to the cleaners" means to deceive, cheat, or financially exploit someone by taking all of their money or belongings, often through skillful manipulation or unfair practices. It implies a significant loss or defeat, leaving the person in a vulnerable or disadvantaged position.

take (one) out of (oneself) The idiom "take (one) out of (oneself)" means to distract or divert someone's attention away from their own thoughts, worries, or concerns, usually by engaging them in an enjoyable or entertaining activity. It refers to a situation where someone is momentarily taken away from their introspection or inner self and is focused on something external.

take a rain check (on something) The idiom "take a rain check (on something)" means to decline an invitation or offer for the present moment, but express an interest in accepting it at a later time or on another occasion. It is commonly used when someone wants to postpone or reschedule a planned activity.

take aback The idiom "take aback" means to surprise or shock someone. It refers to the feeling of being caught off guard or unprepared for something unexpected.

take a rain check The idiom "take a rain check" means to decline or postpone an invitation or offer that one cannot accept at the present moment, but would like to accept at a later time or on another occasion.

take over/up the reins The idiom "take over/up the reins" refers to assuming control or responsibility for a certain task, project, or organization. It originates from the literal act of taking control of a horse by gripping the reins, which allows the rider to direct and guide the horse. In a figurative sense, it signifies the act of assuming authority and leadership in a particular situation.

somebody can take it or leave it The idiom "somebody can take it or leave it" means that someone is indifferent or unconcerned about something. It implies that the person is not particularly interested or enthusiastic, and they are comfortable with either accepting or rejecting it.

take risks The idiom "take risks" means to engage in activities or make decisions that involve a certain amount of uncertainty, potential danger, or the possibility of failure in order to achieve desired goals or outcomes.

take sm by surprise The idiom "take someone by surprise" means to catch or startle someone unexpectedly or without advance notice. It refers to a situation where someone is shocked or unprepared for something that happens suddenly or unexpectedly.

take sb to task The idiom "take someone to task" means to criticize or reprimand someone for their actions or behavior, typically in a stern or stern manner.

take office The idiom "take office" refers to the act of assuming an official role or position, particularly in a government, organization, or company. It specifically indicates the moment when an individual formally starts their duties and responsibilities associated with a particular office or position of authority.

take up the hatchet The idiom "take up the hatchet" means to prepare to engage in conflict or to initiate a fight or feud, usually after a long period of tension or disagreement. It suggests a readiness to confront or retaliate against someone or something. The phrase originates from the literal act of grabbing a hatchet, a small hand axe used as a weapon, to symbolize an aggressive and confrontational stance.

take your eye off the ball The idiom "take your eye off the ball" means to become distracted or lose focus on the main objective or goal, often resulting in a mistake or failure. It signifies a loss of attention or concentration, leading to a lack of awareness or control over a situation.

take an oath The idiom "take an oath" refers to making a formal and solemn commitment or promise, usually done by swearing upon a sacred object or by invoking a higher power. It signifies a binding agreement or pledge to uphold certain principles, responsibilities, or duties.

take liberties with sm or sth The idiom "take liberties with someone or something" means to behave in a bold, disrespectful, or inappropriate manner towards someone or something, often by going beyond acceptable limits of behavior or by treating them with a lack of respect or restraint. It implies disregarding the boundaries or rules that should normally be observed.

take sth with a pinch of salt The idiom "take something with a pinch of salt" means to be skeptical or not completely believe what is being said or claimed. It suggests that one should not take everything at face value and should instead approach it with doubt or caution.

take in good part The idiom "take in good part" means to receive or accept something in a positive or favorable manner, often explaining that an action or remark was not intended to offend or upset someone.

take sm or sth off The idiom "take sm or sth off" means to remove or subtract something, usually clothing or an object, from a person or a place. It can also refer to deducting or reducing an amount from something, such as a price or a bill.

take pride (in sb/sth) The idiom "take pride (in sb/sth)" means to feel a sense of satisfaction, accomplishment, or esteem for oneself or towards someone or something. It implies having a strong feeling of self-respect, dignity, and admiration for one's own actions, qualities, or achievements, or for those of others. This phrase often suggests a positive and confident attitude.

take on a life of own The idiom "take on a life of its own" refers to something becoming self-sustaining or developing a separate and distinct existence or meaning beyond its original intention or purpose. It implies that the thing or idea has gained new significance or momentum independent of external influences, often resulting in unexpected consequences or outcomes.

devil take the hindmost The idiom "devil take the hindmost" is used to express a selfish attitude or a disregard for others in pursuit of personal gain. It means that in a competitive or difficult situation, one should look out for oneself without concern for others, even if it means leaving others behind.

take sb for a ride The idiom "take someone for a ride" typically means to deceive or cheat someone, often by persuading them to go along with something that is ultimately harmful or disadvantageous to them. It can also refer to taking advantage of someone or manipulating them for personal gain.

take one at word The idiom "take one at word" means to believe or trust someone completely without any doubt or skepticism. It implies accepting someone's statement or promise without question or hesitancy.

take it easy on The idiom "take it easy on" means to treat someone or something gently, leniently, or without exerting too much pressure or force. It suggests being considerate, understanding, or forgiving rather than demanding or harsh.

take care of sm The idiom "take care of someone" means to assume responsibility for someone's well-being, support, or security. It implies looking after and attending to their needs or ensuring their safety and protection in various aspects.

take a stand (against sm or sth) The idiom "take a stand (against sm or sth)" means to publicly express one's position or opinion on a particular issue and to actively oppose or resist it. It involves actively speaking out or taking action against something or someone, typically to defend one's beliefs, values, or rights.

take evasive action The idiom "take evasive action" refers to the act of quickly and skillfully avoiding or escaping a dangerous or threatening situation, typically by making sudden and unexpected maneuvers. It implies taking proactive measures to avoid harm, whether physical, emotional, or otherwise.

make sit up and take notice The idiom "make sit up and take notice" means to do or say something that captures someone's attention or impresses them. It refers to an action or statement that demands attention and arouses interest or astonishment.

take the weight off (one's) legs The idiom "take the weight off (one's) legs" means to sit down or rest in order to relieve physical exhaustion or fatigue from standing or walking for an extended period of time. It implies a need for temporary relief from bearing one's own weight and finding a moment of relaxation or respite.

take liberties The idiom "take liberties" refers to the act of behaving in a way that exceeds accepted boundaries or norms, often to the detriment or disregard of others. It implies the act of overstepping limits, being presumptuous, or behaving inappropriately.

take sm for an idiot and take sm for a fool The phrase "take someone for an idiot/fool" means to believe or treat someone as if they are unintelligent or easily deceived. It implies that the person doing so underestimates the intelligence or awareness of the person they are dealing with.

take a long (cool/hard) look at something The idiom "take a long (cool/hard) look at something" means to carefully and critically examine, observe, or evaluate something in a detailed and thoughtful manner. It implies the need for thorough scrutiny or analysis to gain a deeper understanding or a different perspective on a particular topic, situation, or issue. The addition of "cool" or "hard" can further emphasize the seriousness or intensity of the examination, indicating the need for an objective and detached assessment or a more demanding evaluation respectively.

take a look at sm or sth The idiom "take a look at something or someone" means to examine or observe something or someone carefully with one's eyes in order to gain information or assess its characteristics. It implies actively paying attention and giving focus to the subject being looked at.

take care of somebody/something/yourself The idiom "take care of somebody/something/yourself" means to assume responsibility for the well-being, safety, or maintenance of someone or something. It implies the act of looking after or attending to another person's needs, interests, or belongings. Additionally, it can also refer to the act of taking precautions or measures to ensure one's own well-being or self-preservation.

take it to one's grave The idiom "take it to one's grave" means to keep a secret or piece of information confidential for one's entire life, never revealing it to anyone else. It implies that the person is determined to keep the information a secret even after death.

take a bead on (someone or something) The idiom "take a bead on (someone or something)" means to focus one's attention or aim at someone or something, often with the intention of taking action or making a judgment. It originates from the practice of aiming a firearm by aligning the front and rear sights to take an accurate shot. In a figurative sense, it implies directing one's attention or effort towards a specific target.

take (sb) by surprise The idiom "take (sb) by surprise" means to startle or catch someone unexpectedly or without warning. It refers to the act of surprising someone with something that they were not anticipating or prepared for.

take a knock The idiom "take a knock" means to experience a setback, failure, or a negative outcome. It often refers to encountering difficulties or facing challenges that cause some form of damage or loss, whether physical, emotional, or psychological. It can also imply enduring criticism, rejection, or being dealt with harshly in certain situations. In summary, "taking a knock" describes the process of encountering an adverse situation or facing adversity.

take it The idiom "take it" is often used as a colloquial phrase to mean accepting or enduring a situation or circumstance without complaint or resistance. It generally implies the idea of accepting whatever happens or comes your way without objection or protest.

can take it, at I take it The idiom "can take it, as I take it" essentially means to be able to handle or endure a particular situation or criticism without becoming upset or offended. It implies having a strong mental or emotional resilience to face challenges or criticism with ease and without getting affected.

take one's medicine The idiom "take one's medicine" means to accept and endure the negative consequences or punishment for one's actions or decisions. It implies facing the repercussions, accepting responsibility, or dealing with an unpleasant situation or outcome.

take the floor To "take the floor" generally means to step forward or assume a prominent position in a public gathering or event, particularly to speak or perform. It implies actively engaging and capturing the attention of the audience or participants.

take the initiative The idiom "take the initiative" means to be proactive or to take the first step in a situation. It refers to being assertive, taking charge, and being responsible for initiating actions or making decisions.

take the sting out of sth The idiom "take the sting out of something" means to make a difficult or unpleasant situation less painful, severe, or impactful. It refers to reducing the negative effects or lessening the emotional impact of a situation.

take after sm The idiom "take after someone" means to resemble or have similar characteristics to another person, usually a family member, in terms of appearance, behavior, or personality traits.

take the hint The idiom "take the hint" means to understand or acknowledge a subtle indication, suggestion, or clue given by someone, typically implying that the person should modify their actions, behavior, or approach accordingly. It implies recognizing and accepting an indirect or polite way of conveying a message or intention.

take a load off (of) sm's mind The idiom "take a load off (of) someone's mind" means to provide relief or alleviate someone's worries, burdens, or concerns. It suggests the act of removing a mental or emotional weight or pressure from someone, allowing them to feel less stressed or anxious.

take a look at The idiom "take a look at" means to observe or examine something carefully or briefly in order to gain knowledge or understanding of it.

take the wind out of sb's sails The idiom "take the wind out of someone's sails" means to diminish or deflate someone's enthusiasm, confidence, or ego by doing or saying something that undermines or undermines their accomplishments, plans, or beliefs. It often refers to a situation where someone's pride or excitement is unexpectedly diminished, leaving them feeling deflated or discouraged.

take the liberty of doing The idiom "take the liberty of doing" means to do something without asking for permission, often implying that it may be considered impolite or presumptuous. It signifies acting independently, sometimes out of a sense of authority or confidence, without seeking consent or formal approval.

carry/take coals to Newcastle The idiom "carry/take coals to Newcastle" means to undertake a pointless or unnecessary action, often referring to bringing or offering something that is already abundant or readily available in a particular place. It originated from the town of Newcastle upon Tyne in England, which was historically a major coal-mining and exporting center. The idiom implies a futile or redundant effort, as there is little need to bring additional coal to a place known for its abundant supply.

take flight The idiom "take flight" means to quickly and suddenly run away or escape from a particular place or situation, often due to fear, danger, or a strong desire to avoid something.

take someone's breath away The idiom "take someone's breath away" means to cause someone to feel awe, astonishment, or admiration to the point where they are momentarily speechless or unable to breathe. It describes a strong and breathtaking impact or overwhelming emotion that leaves a person in a state of wonder or awe.

take something on the chin To "take something on the chin" means to accept or endure a difficult or unpleasant situation without complaining or showing weakness. It implies facing challenges or criticism directly and stoically, often in a courageous manner. The expression originates from boxing, where to take a punch on the chin without falling down indicates resilience and toughness.

It would take an act of Congress to do sth. The idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do something" means that the task or action being discussed is extremely difficult, bureaucratic, or time-consuming to accomplish. It implies that a lengthy and complex process, similar to that of passing a law through the United States Congress, would be required to achieve the desired outcome.

take on board The idiom "take on board" means to accept or consider something, especially a suggestion or criticism. It suggests the act of mentally acknowledging and incorporating information or ideas into one's thoughts or actions.

take (something) lightly The idiom "take (something) lightly" means to not consider or treat something as serious or significant. It suggests not giving much importance or thought to a particular matter or issue.

take up the cudgels for/against sb/sth The idiom "take up the cudgels for/against someone/something" means to vigorously defend or support someone or something, particularly in an argument or debate. It implies taking a strong stand or advocating on behalf of someone or something, often with a confrontational or aggressive approach.

(really) take the biscuit The idiom "take the biscuit" is commonly used to express astonishment, annoyance, or to depict an action or behavior that is considered the most extreme or outrageous. It means that something or someone has surpassed all others in terms of being surprising, unacceptable, or ridiculous. The addition of "really" before "take the biscuit" further emphasizes the extent to which it surpasses expectations or standards.

take a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane The idiom "take a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane" is used to describe the act of revisiting or recalling fond memories and experiences from the past. It implies taking a figurative journey back in time to reminisce about nostalgic moments or reflect on one's personal history or shared experiences with others.

take a fancy to sb/sth The idiom "take a fancy to sb/sth" means to have a sudden attraction or liking towards someone or something. It often implies an affection or interest that develops quickly and without obvious reason.

take (someone or something) to law The idiom "take (someone or something) to law" means to file a lawsuit or legal action against someone or something in order to seek justice or resolution for a grievance or dispute. It implies resorting to the legal system as a means of resolving a problem or seeking a remedy.

take a flyer (on something) The idiom "take a flyer (on something)" means to take a gamble or risk on something without having substantial information or certainty about the outcome. It suggests taking a chance or pursuing an opportunity with potentially high rewards, despite the lack of guarantees or knowledge about the result.

have/take a dump The idiom "have/take a dump" is a slang phrase referring to the act of defecation or going to the bathroom for bowel movement.

take sth in stride, at take sth in your stride The idiom "take something in stride" or "take something in your stride" means to handle or cope with a difficult or challenging situation calmly and without becoming overly upset or bothered by it. When someone takes something in stride, they accept it as a normal part of life and continue on without allowing it to affect them negatively. It suggests an ability to adapt or deal with adversity with ease and confidence.

take sm or sth off (sth) The idiom "take sm or sth off (sth)" means to remove or subtract something from another thing. It can refer to physically removing an object from a particular place or context. Additionally, it can also mean deducting or subtracting a specific quantity or value from a total.

take time out The idiom "take time out" means to pause or temporarily stop what one is doing in order to rest, relax, or engage in a different activity. It refers to taking a break or taking a moment to focus on oneself in order to recharge or rejuvenate.

not take kindly to sth The idiom "not take kindly to sth" means to strongly dislike, disapprove, or be displeased with something. It suggests that the person does not react well or has a negative response towards a particular thing or situation.

take a dim view To take a dim view means to have a negative or disapproving opinion or attitude towards something or someone. It suggests that one does not regard the matter favorably or takes a pessimistic perspective on it.

take the biscuit (or bun or cake) The idiom "take the biscuit (or bun or cake)" is an expression used to describe a situation or behavior that is particularly surprising, outrageous, or extreme. It implies that whatever is being referenced is considered the most remarkable or extraordinary example of its kind. It can be used both in a positive or negative context, depending on the situation.

not take sth lying down The idiom "not take something lying down" means to refuse to accept an unfair treatment or criticism without protesting or taking action. It suggests that a person will not passively endure or submit to a situation and will instead stand up for themselves or fight back against perceived injustice.

take one's gloves off The idiom "take one's gloves off" means to stop being polite or restrained and start being more aggressive, confrontational, or forceful in one's actions or words. It indicates a shift from a more reserved or gentler approach to a more direct or assertive one.

bring/take sb down a peg (or two) The idiom "bring/take someone down a peg (or two)" means to humble or downgrade someone's opinion of their own abilities, achievements, or superiority. It refers to the act of reducing someone's self-importance or ego by putting them in a more realistic or modest position.

take one's ease The idiom "take one's ease" means to relax or rest comfortably, often in a calm and leisurely manner. It suggests finding a state of relaxation and letting go of any stress or obligations.

take a crack at sth/doing sth The expression "take a crack at something/doing something" means to attempt or try to do something, often implying that it may be challenging or difficult. It suggests making an effort to accomplish a task or solve a problem, even if the outcome is uncertain.

take possession (of sth) The idiom "take possession (of sth)" refers to the act of acquiring and assuming control or ownership over something. It can refer to both physical objects and abstract concepts. When someone takes possession of something, they typically gain authority or control over it, often by legally or formally obtaining it.

take up space The idiom "take up space" means to occupy or utilize a physical area or to consume someone's time, attention, or resources unnecessarily or without providing any value or benefit. It can also refer to someone's presence or actions being wasteful, burdensome, or insignificant.

take up one's abode The idiom "take up one's abode" means to establish one's residence or settle in a particular place, often implying a more permanent arrangement. It refers to the act of making a place one's home.

take a dim view of sth â€œTo take a dim view of somethingâ€ means to have a negative or disapproving opinion or attitude towards something. It implies a lack of support or favorable judgment towards a particular action, behavior, or idea.

take forever The idiom "take forever" means to require a very long time to complete or happen. It implies that the duration or waiting time feels excessively long and might test one's patience.

take pity (on sm or an animal) The idiom "take pity (on someone or an animal)" means to feel compassion or empathy towards someone or something and to respond by showing kindness, mercy, or assistance. It implies recognizing someone's suffering or difficult situation and choosing to provide help or support out of sympathy.

take into sm place The idiom "take into (some) place" typically means to bring someone or something inside a specific location or area. It can be used literally when physically moving something or someone from one place to another, or figuratively when discussing the inclusion or admission of someone or something into a certain place or group.

take someone's part The idiom "take someone's part" can be defined as supporting or defending someone in a disagreement or conflict, often by aligning with their viewpoint or empathizing with their position.

take the bread out of people's mouths The idiom "take the bread out of people's mouths" means to deprive someone of their livelihood or source of income, typically through actions that harm their business or career prospects. It refers to an action that prevents someone from earning a living or supporting themselves and their family.

take it on the chin To "take it on the chin" means to face adversity or hardship bravely and without complaint. It implies accepting defeat or criticism with grace and resilience, without getting discouraged or giving up. It originates from boxing, where a boxer who receives a punch directly on the chin without getting knocked down demonstrates courage and determination.

take/lead sb on/to one side The idiom "take/lead someone on/to one side" means to ask or lead someone to a separate or private location or conversation in order to have a discreet or confidential discussion. It often implies that the conversation is important or requires privacy.

take lying down The idiom "take lying down" means to accept or endure something unpleasant or unfair without complaining or resisting. It implies passivity or submission in the face of difficulty or mistreatment.

take a powder The idiom "take a powder" is an old-fashioned slang phrase that means to suddenly and quietly leave or depart from a place without informing others. It suggests a secretive and swift exit, often implying avoidance or escape from a situation or responsibility.

take courage (from something) The idiom "take courage (from something)" means to gain strength, inspiration, or encouragement from a particular situation or event. It implies drawing motivation or confidence from a specific source to face or overcome challenges or difficulties.

take sb/sth by storm The idiom "take someone or something by storm" means to achieve rapid and overwhelming success or popularity. It refers to the act of impressing or captivating someone or something in a forceful and irresistible manner, capturing their attention or admiration almost instantly.

not take no for an answer The idiom "not take no for an answer" means to refuse to accept a rejection or negative response, and persistently continue pursuing or demanding something despite initial resistance or refusal.

take to drink The idiom "take to drink" refers to someone developing a habit of regularly consuming alcohol, usually as a means of escape or to cope with difficulties in life.

take a leaf out of book The idiom "take a leaf out of book" means to learn something from someone or to imitate their behavior or actions. It suggests copying a positive or successful example set by someone else.

take measures The idiom "take measures" means to undertake actions or steps in order to achieve a specific goal or to address a particular problem or situation. It refers to implementing strategies, policies, or methods to regulate, control, or improve a particular situation.

take back The idiom "take back" means to retract or withdraw something that was previously said, done, or given, typically due to regret, remorse, or a change of opinion. It can also refer to reclaiming possession of an item that was lent or given to someone else.

take for The idiom "take for" means to assume or believe someone or something to be a certain way, often in a mistaken or incorrect manner. It involves forming a perception or opinion about someone or something based on limited information or preconceived notions.

have/take a notion to do sth The idiom "have/take a notion to do something" means to suddenly or inexplicably develop a desire or inclination to do something, often without any obvious reason or prior intention. It implies an impulsive decision or a spontaneous urge to engage in a particular activity or course of action.

hard to take The idiom "hard to take" means that something is difficult or challenging to accept, tolerate, or comprehend. It refers to situations, events, or behavior that may be emotionally upsetting, disappointing, or disturbing.

take one (thing) at a time The idiom "take one (thing) at a time" means to focus on or deal with tasks or issues individually and sequentially, rather than trying to tackle them all at once. It suggests the need to prioritize and approach things steadily, without becoming overwhelmed or getting ahead of oneself.

take the shine off sth The idiom "take the shine off something" means to diminish or reduce the appeal, attractiveness, or impressiveness of something. It suggests that something has become less impressive or desirable due to a particular action, event, or circumstance.

take chances The idiom "take chances" means to be willing to engage in risky or uncertain actions or ventures, rather than playing it safe or avoiding potential failure or rejection. It implies being courageous, making bold decisions, and embracing opportunities that may have a greater potential for success or fulfillment, despite the possibility of negative outcomes.

take sm for a ride The idiom "take someone for a ride" means to deceive, cheat, or trick someone, typically by persuading them to go along with a plan or venture that ultimately results in their disadvantage or harm. It can also refer to a situation where someone is manipulated or used for someone else's gain or amusement.

take at face value The idiom "take at face value" means to accept something exactly as it appears, without questioning or doubting its truth or accuracy.

take sm out to dinner The idiom "take someone out to dinner" means to invite or escort someone, typically a friend, family member, or romantic partner, to a meal at a restaurant, with the intention of treating and enjoying their company. It implies the act of paying for the meal as an expression of generosity, hospitality, or appreciation towards the person being taken out.

take a gander The idiom "take a gander" means to have a quick, casual look or glance at something or someone. It is often used to indicate taking a brief, informal observation without much intention or focus.

take issue with something The idiom "take issue with something" means to have a disagreement or to challenge something, often expressing disagreement or criticism towards a specific statement, opinion, or action.

take somebodyâ€™s breath away The idiom "take somebody's breath away" means to astonish or impress someone greatly. It refers to a striking or breathtaking experience or sight that leaves someone momentarily unable to speak or catch their breath due to its beauty, grandeur, or intensity.

take liberties with (someone or something) The idiom "take liberties with (someone or something)" means to act without proper respect or consideration for someone or something, often by overstepping boundaries or disregarding rules or conventions. It implies behaving in a way that is insensitive or inappropriate, usually for personal gain or advantage.

take sth with a grain of salt, at take sth with a pinch of salt The idiom "take something with a grain of salt" or "take something with a pinch of salt" means to be skeptical or not completely believe what someone says or what you hear, as it may not be entirely accurate or credible. It suggests being cautious and not taking everything at face value.

take your lumps The idiom "take your lumps" means to accept or endure the unpleasant consequences or criticism of one's actions without complaint or resistance. It implies facing the difficulties or hardships that come with a particular situation without complaining or trying to avoid them.

take the high ground The idiom "take the high ground" refers to the act of adopting a morally superior or advantageous position in a situation or argument. It suggests choosing the path of integrity, principled behavior, or strategic advantage, often by refraining from engaging in a negative or petty way. Symbolically, it represents rising above conflicts or temptations to maintain a position of honor, fairness, and wisdom.

take the fall for The idiom "take the fall for" means to accept blame or punishment for someone else's actions or mistakes, often to protect them from facing the consequences.

take credit for The idiom "take credit for" means to claim responsibility or acknowledgment for something that was accomplished or created by someone else.

take no stock in sth The idiom "take no stock in sth" means to not put any faith, trust, or value in something. It implies a lack of belief or confidence in the importance or credibility of a particular thing or idea.

take too much on The idiom "take too much on" refers to someone attempting to assume more responsibilities or tasks than they can reasonably handle or manage. It implies a situation where an individual becomes overwhelmed or overloaded due to their tendency to accept or be given excessive amounts of work or obligations.

take a long, hard look at sth The idiom "take a long, hard look at something" refers to thoroughly examining or scrutinizing something in a serious and objective manner. It implies the need to carefully assess or evaluate a situation, problem, or issue, often demanding sincere reflection and analysis. It suggests a deliberate and diligent effort to fully comprehend or understand something without bias or preconceptions.

take a pot shot The idiom "take a pot shot" refers to making an aimless or haphazard attempt at something, often without much thought or planning. It can also be used to describe taking a random or opportunistic chance, usually without any substantial expectation or particular goal in mind.

take a drag The idiom "take a drag" typically refers to inhaling or taking a puff from a cigarette, pipe, or any other smoking device. It can also be used metaphorically to mean taking a momentary break or indulging in a temporary pleasure or vice.

take something in stride The idiom "take something in stride" can be defined as dealing with or accepting something difficult, unexpected, or challenging in a calm and composed manner without becoming upset or overly affected by it. It means to handle a situation with ease and without allowing it to disrupt one's emotional state or overall well-being.

take liberties (with sb) The idiom "take liberties (with sb)" means to act or speak in a way that shows disrespect or disregard for someone's boundaries, rights, or opinions. It typically implies a sense of overstepping the appropriate limits or personal space of another person.

bear/take the brunt of sth The idiom "bear/take the brunt of sth" means to receive or endure the main force, impact, or negative effects of something, usually a difficult or challenging situation. It implies being at the forefront of the consequences or experiencing the worst part of a particular event or circumstance.

take five The idiom "take five" means to take a short break or rest for a few minutes, typically lasting five minutes. It is often used in informal or casual settings to encourage someone to relax, take a breather, or recharge before proceeding with a task or activity.

take a/its/their toll The idiom "take a/its/their toll" means to cause damage, exhaustion, or harm to someone or something over a period of time, resulting in negative consequences or a decrease in vitality or effectiveness. It typically describes the accumulative impact of a demanding or difficult situation on a person or thing.

take a dim view of sm or sth The idiom "take a dim view of someone or something" means to have a negative or unfavorable opinion, perception, or judgement about someone or something. It implies disapproval or lack of enthusiasm towards the person or thing in question.

take a/the secret to (one's)/the grave The idiom "take a/the secret to (one's)/the grave" means to keep a secret completely confidential and never reveal it to anyone, even after death. It implies that the secret is of great importance or sensitivity, and the person is determined to never disclose it, not even in their final moments.

take a jab at sm The idiom "take a jab at sm" means to make a critical or sarcastic remark or comment about someone, often in a light-hearted or teasing manner. It is typically used when someone playfully mocks another person by making a witty or humorous remark at their expense.

take a crack at something The idiom "take a crack at something" is used to describe making an attempt or trying one's hand at something. It implies giving it a try or taking a shot at solving a problem, completing a task, or achieving a goal, regardless of the possibility of success.

take on board sth The idiom "take on board something" means to consider or accept something, usually new information, ideas, suggestions, or opinions. It implies assimilating or incorporating the given input into one's thinking or decision-making process. It suggests being open-minded and receptive to input in order to improve understanding or make more informed choices.

take life in hands The idiom "take life in one's hands" means to take control or responsibility for one's own life and make decisions or take action with determination and confidence. It refers to actively shaping one's own destiny and not relying on others to determine one's path.

take (your) leave (of somebody) The idiom "take (your) leave (of somebody)" means to say goodbye or bid farewell to someone, usually in a polite or formal manner. It refers to the act of parting or departing from someone's presence.

take a firm grip on someone or something The idiom "take a firm grip on someone or something" means to establish control or dominance over a person or object. It implies taking hold or securing a strong hold on someone or something in a determined and forceful manner, often with the intention of exerting influence or authority.

take the bark off The idiom "take the bark off" refers to speaking or acting harshly, rudely, or bluntly towards someone, often with the intention of criticizing or reprimanding them. It can also imply a forceful or direct approach in handling a situation, similar to peeling the outer protective layer (bark) off something.

take a/(one's) cue from (someone or something) The idiom "take a/(one's) cue from (someone or something)" means to follow or imitate the actions, behavior, or advice of someone or something as a guide or inspiration. It implies taking direction or inspiration from someone or something in order to guide one's own actions or decisions.

take a dim view of The idiom "take a dim view of" means to have a negative or disapproving opinion or perception of something or someone. It suggests that the person holds a pessimistic or unfavorable outlook towards a particular situation, action, or behavior.

take sth in your stride The idiom "take something in your stride" means to handle or deal with a difficult situation or setback in a calm and confident manner, without being overly affected or troubled by it. It implies the ability to face challenges or obstacles with ease and a positive mindset.

take lightly The idiom "take lightly" means to not consider something as serious, significant, or important. It suggests to treat or deal with a situation, task, or matter with little concern, seriousness, or gravity.

take the law into your own hands The idiom "take the law into your own hands" means to seek justice or take revenge by personally and illegally addressing a perceived wrongdoing without involving the proper authorities or legal system. It implies acting outside the boundaries of established laws and taking matters into one's own hands, often with the intention of correcting what one believes to be an injustice.

take refuge in sth The idiom "take refuge in something" means seeking protection, safety, or solace in a particular person, thing, or activity during a difficult or challenging situation. It implies finding comfort, relief, or a temporary escape from problems or emotional distress by relying on something that provides a sense of security.

take over The idiom "take over" refers to the act of assuming control, power, or responsibility of something, often replacing or succeeding someone else in a leadership or managerial position. It implies the process of gaining authority, influence, or ownership over a particular situation, organization, business, or territory.

won't take no for an answer The idiom "won't take no for an answer" means that someone is persistent and refuses to accept rejection or refusal. They are determined to get what they want despite being told that they can't or shouldn't have it.

take it/things one day at a time The idiom "take it/things one day at a time" means to approach life or a situation with a focus on the present moment rather than worrying about the future. It suggests taking small steps or making gradual progress, instead of overwhelming oneself with long-term goals or stressing about the unknown. This phrase emphasizes the importance of patience, living in the present, and handling challenges as they come.

at face value, take The idiom "at face value, take" means to accept or believe something as it appears or is presented, without questioning or analyzing it further. It implies that no deeper meaning or hidden layers should be sought out, and the information or situation should be accepted at its literal or surface level.

take your cue from sb/sth The idiom "take your cue from someone/something" means to observe or pay attention to someone or something in order to determine what action or behavior to take in a particular situation. It suggests that one should follow or imitate the example or instruction provided by another person or a given situation.

swallow/take the bait The idiom "swallow/take the bait" means to fall for a trap or to be deceived by someone's trickery or manipulation. It refers to when someone becomes easily convinced or fooled, often resulting in negative consequences for themselves.

take into heart The idiom "take into heart" means to deeply internalize or be deeply affected by something, usually a remark or criticism. It refers to the act of thinking about or pondering upon the matter and allowing it to deeply impact one's emotions or feelings.

take to one side The idiom "take to one side" means to lead or pull someone aside from a group or conversation in order to speak to them privately or in confidence. It is often used when there is a need for a discreet conversation or when giving individual advice or instructions.

take the law into own hands The idiom "take the law into one's own hands" means to take actions or seek revenge outside the boundaries of the legal system, often due to a perceived lack of justice or to address a personal grievance. It refers to the act of bypassing the established legal processes and enforcing justice through personal actions, which can be unlawful or done without proper authority.

take up with The idiom "take up with" means to become involved or associate with someone, often implying that the association may be questionable or unworthy. It can also refer to adopting a specific attitude, habit, or belief.

take it into one's head The idiom "take it into one's head" means to suddenly have an idea or notion, often without any logical explanation or reason. It refers to someone spontaneously deciding or becoming obsessed with a particular thought or plan, even if it appears unusual or irrational to others.

go to/take great pains to do sth The idiom "go to/take great pains to do something" means to make a great effort or expend a considerable amount of time, energy, or resources in order to accomplish a task or achieve a specific goal. It implies that someone is being extremely careful, thorough, or meticulous in their actions or preparations.

take someone's word for it The idiom "take someone's word for it" means to believe or trust someone's statement or assurance without requiring further evidence or proof.

take sm to task The idiom "take someone to task" means to reprimand or criticize someone for something they have done wrong or failed to do. It implies confronting or holding someone accountable for their actions or behavior.

take along The idiom "take along" means to bring someone or something with you when going somewhere, typically on a journey or outing.

take sth into sm place The idiom "take something into (some place)" typically means to bring or carry something into a specific location or area. It implies physically moving or transferring something from one place to another. The phrase can be used both literally and figuratively depending on the context.

take first/second place The idiom "take first/second place" refers to achieving the highest or second highest rank or position in a competition, race, or any competitive event. It implies being one of the top performers or winners.

take notice The idiom "take notice" means to pay attention to something or to acknowledge its importance or significance.

take the blame (for doing sth) The idiom "take the blame (for doing sth)" means to accept responsibility or culpability for a wrongdoing or mistake, even if one is not solely responsible for it. It involves willingly shouldering the consequences or negative repercussions of an action, regardless of whether others were involved or contributed to the situation.

take inventory The idiom "take inventory" refers to the act of assessing or evaluating one's possessions, resources, or situation. It generally involves making a complete and thorough list or count of items or assets, often done for organizational or planning purposes.

Give an inch and he'll take a mile The idiom "Give an inch and he'll take a mile" refers to someone who, once given a small opportunity or concession, will seize it and exploit it to its fullest extent, often exceeding reasonable limits or expectations. It suggests that a person will not be satisfied with a small advantage but will try to gain as much as possible from any given situation.

take the liberty of doing sth The idiom "take the liberty of doing something" means to assume the freedom or privilege to do something without seeking permission or approval. It implies that the person is taking action or making a decision independently and without considering the potential objections of others.

take sth into account The idiom "take something into account" means to consider or include something when making a decision or judgment. It refers to the act of acknowledging and factoring in a particular factor, circumstance, or piece of information in order to arrive at a more accurate or comprehensive understanding of a situation.

take sb for granted The idiom "take someone for granted" means to overlook or underestimate someone's worth, skills, or contributions, often due to familiarity or habit. It refers to not showing appreciation or recognition for someone's efforts or taking advantage of their availability without acknowledging or acknowledging their efforts or needs.

I'll take a rain check The idiom "I'll take a rain check" means that someone cannot accept an invitation or offer at the present moment, but would like to accept it at a later time. It implies that the person is politely declining the invitation or offer for the current moment, but would like to have the opportunity to do it in the future.

take holy orders The idiom "take holy orders" refers to the act of entering religious life, particularly within the Christian faith, by becoming a member of a religious order or becoming ordained as a priest, deacon, or minister. It signifies committing oneself fully to religious service, dedicating one's life to the church, and accepting the responsibilities and obligations that come with it.

take years off sb The idiom "take years off sb" means to make someone appear younger or more youthful.

take a leaf from (someone's) book The idiom "take a leaf from (someone's) book" means to imitate or adopt someone's behavior, approach, or actions because they have been successful, exemplary, or worthy of emulation. It suggests learning from someone's experiences, achievements, or expertise in order to improve oneself or achieve similar results.

take your mind off something The idiom "take your mind off something" means to distract or divert one's thoughts away from a particular topic or issue. It refers to finding a way to temporarily stop thinking or worrying about a certain matter in order to relax or focus on something else.

take it into head The idiom "take it into one's head" means to suddenly decide or become determined to do something, typically without any logical reason or prior planning.

take one's chances The idiom "take one's chances" means to accept or embrace the risks and uncertainties involved in a particular situation, often without being able to predict or control the outcome. It implies willingly accepting the potential consequences and proceeding regardless of the risks involved.

take sth on faith The idiom "take something on faith" means to believe or accept something without evidence or proof. It involves trusting and accepting something based solely on faith or belief, often in the absence of concrete evidence or logical reasoning. It implies accepting something as true or valid without questioning or requesting further evidence.

take someone out to dinner The idiom "take someone out to dinner" means to invite or treat someone to a meal in a restaurant as a gesture of hospitality, friendship, or romantic interest. It implies that the person issuing the invitation bears the expense of the meal.

take a stab in the dark The idiom "take a stab in the dark" means to make a guess or attempt something without having sufficient information or knowledge about it. It is akin to taking a chance or making an estimation without any certainty or evidence to support one's actions or decisions.

Give sb an inch and they'll take a mile. The idiom "Give someone an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you give someone a small opportunity or concession, they will take advantage of it and try to get even more than what was initially offered or intended. It implies that some people tend to exploit any leniency or generosity given to them.

take one's cue from sm The idiom "take one's cue from someone" means to observe, imitate, or learn from someone's actions, words, or behavior in order to know how to act or respond in a particular situation. It suggests that one is using another person's actions or words as a signal or indicator for their own behavior.

able to take just so much The idiom "able to take just so much" means reaching the limit of one's tolerance or endurance for a particular situation or occurrence. It suggests that an individual has a limited capacity to handle or withstand something and is close to reaching their breaking point.

take a leaf out of life, book The expression "take a leaf out of someone's book" means to learn or mimic someone's behavior or actions that have proven to be successful or admirable. It implies that one should emulate the positive qualities or strategies of another person as a way to improve oneself.

take the trouble The idiom "take the trouble" refers to making an effort or going through the trouble or inconvenience of doing something. It implies that the person is willing to invest time, energy, or resources into completing a task or resolving a matter, despite the difficulties or challenges it may involve.

take the high road The idiom "take the high road" means to choose the morally upright or honorable option in a situation, even if it may be more difficult or less convenient. It implies choosing a path that reflects one's integrity, fairness, and adherence to ethical principles, rather than resorting to low or unethical behavior.

take to wife The idiom "take to wife" means to get married or to enter into a formal and legally recognized union with someone, specifically referring to a man marrying a woman. It implies the commitment and responsibility of starting a marital relationship.

on faith, take it The idiom "on faith, take it" means to accept or believe something without any proof or evidence. It implies that one should trust what is being said or presented without questioning or seeking further verification.

take (one's) fancy The idiom "take (one's) fancy" means to attract or appeal to someone, to capture someone's interest or curiosity. It is often used when describing something that someone finds interesting or desirable.

not take (something) lightly The idiom "not take (something) lightly" means to not treat or consider something as insignificant or unimportant. It implies that one recognizes the seriousness, significance, or potential consequences of a particular situation, decision, or action.

take your hat off to somebody To "take your hat off to somebody" means to express admiration, respect, or praise for someone's achievements, qualities, or actions. It is a figurative expression suggesting the removal of one's hat as a show of deference or appreciation.

take account of The idiom "take account of" means to consider or acknowledge something when making a decision, forming an opinion, or taking a particular course of action. It implies including or factoring in all relevant information or circumstances before reaching a conclusion or making a judgment.

take for dead The idiom "take for dead" means to mistakenly believe or assume that someone is deceased.

take to the cleaners The idiom "take to the cleaners" refers to the act of depriving someone of their money, possessions, or resources through cunning or unfair means. It usually implies a significant financial loss or defeat, often resulting from a clever or ruthless deception or manipulation.

take a bath (on sth) The idiom "take a bath (on sth)" typically means to experience a significant financial loss or failure. It refers to the metaphorical sense of taking a bath in the sense of losing a significant amount of money, similar to being immersed in water.

take no for an answer The idiom "take no for an answer" means to refuse to accept or be satisfied with someone's refusal, rejection, or negative response to a request or proposition. It suggests a persistent attitude or unwillingness to give up, even when faced with opposition or opposition.

take a page from (someone's) book The idiom "take a page from (someone's) book" means to imitate or adopt someone else's behavior, actions, or approach because it is perceived as successful or admirable. It suggests learning from someone's experiences, techniques, or strategies in order to achieve similar results or accomplishments.

take a dim view of something To "take a dim view of something" means to disapprove or have a negative opinion about it. It implies having a pessimistic or unfavorable perspective towards a particular action, behavior, situation, or idea.

take a dive The idiom "take a dive" typically means to deliberately lose or intentionally perform poorly in a competition, usually for fraudulent or deceptive reasons, such as to manipulate the outcome or to gain a secret advantage.

take aside The idiom "take aside" means to move someone away from a group or crowd, usually to have a private conversation with them or to give them advice or instructions privately. It involves separating someone from others in order to have a more focused and personal interaction.

take (one's) leave (of sm) The idiom "take one's leave (of someone)" means to say goodbye or depart from someone, typically in a polite or formal manner. It implies that one is taking their farewell or bidding adieu to the person in question.

take counsel The idiom "take counsel" refers to the act of seeking advice or guidance from others, usually in making important decisions or solving a problem. It involves actively seeking input, perspectives, and wisdom from those who are knowledgeable or experienced in a particular matter.

take the words out of mouth The idiom "take the words out of someone's mouth" is used to express when someone says or expresses exactly what another person was about to say or thinking. It implies that the person fully understands and articulates the thoughts or opinions of someone else before they actually voice them.

take exception The idiom "take exception" means to strongly or vehemently object to something or someone, or to strongly disagree with a statement, action, or opinion.

take a gander (at someone or something) The idiom "take a gander (at someone or something)" means to have a quick or casual look at someone or something, to take a brief glance or observe in a casual way. It often implies a momentary or cursory examination. The phrase is derived from the image of a goose stretching its neck to take a look around.

take French leave The idiom "take French leave" means to leave a place or situation without saying goodbye or without permission, often in a sneaky or discreet manner. It implies leaving abruptly or clandestinely.

take a shine to sb The idiom "take a shine to someone" means to develop a strong liking or admiration for someone. It suggests an instant or immediate attraction or appeal towards a person, often without any specific reason.

take the bread out of somebodyâ€™s mouth The idiom "take the bread out of somebodyâ€™s mouth" means to deprive someone of their livelihood or income, typically by taking away their job or source of income. It implies an action that harms or threatens someone's ability to support themselves or their family.

take someone to the woodshed The idiom "take someone to the woodshed" is an idiomatic expression that means to reprimand or scold someone severely, often in private. It carries the connotation of a stern and private lecture or punishment, typically for a wrongdoing or failure. The expression is metaphorical, derived from the idea of physically taking someone to a woodshed for chastisement or discipline.

take your pick The idiom "take your pick" means that you have the freedom or ability to choose from a variety of options or possibilities.

take oneself off The idiom "take oneself off" means to leave or depart from a place, often suddenly or discreetly, typically to avoid an undesirable situation or to disengage from social interactions. It can also imply removing oneself from a position or responsibility.

take (something) hard The idiom "take (something) hard" means to react emotionally or be greatly affected by a difficult or distressing situation, often experiencing sadness, grief, or disappointment.

be/take a weight off your mind The idiom "be/take a weight off your mind" means to feel relieved or less burdened by a problem or worry. It refers to the feeling of unburdening oneself from a mental or emotional weight, leading to a sense of calm and peace.

take a flyer The idiom "take a flyer" means to take a risk or chance on something, especially in a venture or investment, without being certain of the outcome or success. It typically refers to making a speculative or daring decision that involves some level of uncertainty or unexpected consequences.

Can I take a message? The idiom "Can I take a message?" is used when someone is unavailable or absent and another person asks if they can relay a message to the person in question. It is typically asked by a third party who is willing to act as a messenger or intermediary.

take things easy The idiom "take things easy" means to approach life or situations in a relaxed, laid-back manner, without undue stress or urgency. It suggests slowing down, avoiding unnecessary complications, and maintaining a calm and easygoing attitude.

take issue with sb The idiom "take issue with sb" means to strongly disagree with someone or to have a strong objection to someone's opinion, statement, or action. It implies a stance of challenge or criticism towards the person in question.

take stock The idiom "take stock" means to assess or evaluate a situation or one's resources, usually with the goal of making a decision or determining the next course of action. It involves carefully considering and reviewing the current state or condition of something.

take an interest in The idiom "take an interest in" means to show curiosity, concern, or enthusiasm about something or someone. It implies actively engaging and being interested in understanding or participating in a particular subject or activity.

take a turn for the worse The idiomatic phrase "take a turn for the worse" means that a situation or someone's health has deteriorated or declined unexpectedly or significantly. It suggests that the situation, condition, or person is now worse than it was before, rather than improving or remaining stable.

take the wind out of your sails The idiom "take the wind out of your sails" means to deflate or dampen someone's enthusiasm or confidence, typically by undermining their achievements, plans, or ideas. It refers to the idea of removing the source of momentum or motivation, leaving someone feeling discouraged or disheartened.

take a leaf out of (one's) book The idiom "take a leaf out of (one's) book" means to imitate or adopt someone else's behavior, actions, or qualities, often with the intention of improving oneself. It suggests learning from someone who possesses valuable traits or skills and incorporating them into one's own actions or approach.

take somebody to the cleaners The idiom "take somebody to the cleaners" means to exploit or cheat someone financially, typically by swindling or outsmarting them in a business deal or negotiation. It suggests that one person has taken advantage of another and significantly profited from the situation at the expense of the other individual.

take a trip down memory lane The idiom "take a trip down memory lane" refers to the act of reminiscing about one's past experiences or memories, often by revisiting places or looking through old photographs or other memorabilia. It suggests recalling nostalgic or sentimental moments from the past.

take sth on board The idiom "take something on board" means to accept or consider someone's ideas, suggestions, or feedback, usually with the intention of making changes or improvements based on that input. It involves being open-minded and receptive to new information or perspectives.

take the chill off sth The idiom "take the chill off something" means to make something less cold or to warm something up slightly. It is often used metaphorically to describe something that alleviates or reduces a negative feeling, situation, or atmosphere, making it more comfortable or bearable.

Take it away! The idiom "Take it away!" is often said when giving someone permission or encouragement to begin or initiate an action or performance. It is used to indicate that the person has full control and can proceed.

take turns (doing sth) The idiom "take turns (doing sth)" means to alternate or switch back and forth with someone else in performing a specific action or task. It implies the idea of sharing or dividing responsibilities equally amongst a group or individuals in a sequential order.

take (someone or something) in hand The idiom "take (someone or something) in hand" means to assert control or take charge of a person or situation, usually in order to bring them under control or improve their behavior. It implies assuming a responsible or authoritative role to guide or discipline someone or something.

take notice of sm or sth The idiom "take notice of someone or something" means to give attention, consideration, or recognition to someone or something. It implies being aware of and acknowledging the presence, actions, or significance of a particular person or thing.

take a licking The idiom "take a licking" means to endure or withstand a difficult or challenging situation, often involving physical or emotional hardships, with resilience and determination. It suggests the ability to face adversity, criticism, or punishment without succumbing to defeat or giving up.

take your cue from sth/sb The idiom "take your cue from something/somebody" means to observe or follow the actions, behavior, or signals of something or someone in order to know how to respond or behave in a particular situation. It suggests that one should pay attention to the cues or hints provided by something or somebody as a guide for their own actions or decisions.

take sb's mind off sth The idiom "take sb's mind off sth" means to distract or divert someone's thoughts or focus away from a particular issue, problem, or worry, usually by providing alternative activities or subjects of interest. It helps to temporarily ease their concerns or preoccupation with something.

take a shower The idiom "take a shower" means to cleanse oneself by using water to wash the body, most commonly in a standing position under a showerhead. However, when used figuratively, it can refer to refreshing oneself, regaining clarity or focus, and renewing one's energy or mindset.

take mind off The idiom "take mind off" means to distract oneself from a particular thought or situation by focusing on something else, thereby diverting attention and temporarily forgetting about the matter at hand.

take action The idiom "take action" means to do something or initiate a course of actions in order to address a specific problem or achieve a particular goal.

take one's mind off The idiom "take one's mind off" means to distract or divert someone's attention away from something, typically an issue, problem, or source of worry or stress, in order to provide relief or relaxation. It involves focusing on another activity or topic to temporarily forget about the matter causing disturbance.

take someone or something aboard The idiom "take someone or something aboard" refers to the act of allowing someone or something to enter or join a particular group, organization, project, or venture. It implies accepting or including them in a certain context, often in a metaphorical sense.

can't take your eyes off someone/something The idiom "can't take your eyes off someone/something" means to be completely captivated or fascinated by someone or something, resulting in intense focus or attention on them. It implies being unable or unwilling to divert one's gaze or attention away from the person or object of interest.

take the starch out of sm The idiom "take the starch out of someone" means to weaken or deflate someone's self-importance, confidence, or arrogance. It refers to the act of diminishing or removing the rigid or strong attitude or behavior of a person, thereby making them more humble or submissive.

take a rain check (on sth) The idiom "take a rain check (on sth)" means to politely decline an invitation or offer, but express a desire to accept it at a later time or date. It is often used when someone is unable to attend or participate in an event or activity that they were previously invited to, but would like to do so in the future.

take word for it The idiom "take (someone's) word for it" means to believe or trust what someone is saying without requiring further proof or evidence. It implies having faith in the person's honesty or credibility.

take the edge off The idiom "take the edge off" means to alleviate or reduce the intensity, discomfort, or tension of something, typically by making a situation or feeling less extreme, severe, or sharp. It implies taking measures to lessen the impact or soften the blow of a situation.

take (someone or something) for granted The idiom "take (someone or something) for granted" means to not appreciate or value someone or something properly, usually because you assume they will always be there or provide for you without considering their efforts or significance. It implies a lack of gratitude or recognition for the importance or contributions of the person or thing being taken for granted.

take pick of The idiom "take one's pick" means to have the freedom or opportunity to choose among a variety of options or alternatives. It implies that there are multiple choices available, and one can select the most desirable or suitable option for themselves.

take the field The idiom "take the field" typically refers to when a sports team or military troops enter or start a game, battle, or competition. It signifies the moment when the individuals or group actively participate in an activity, often with enthusiasm and determination.

take advantage of sm or sth To "take advantage of someone or something" means to exploit or unfairly benefit from a person or situation for personal gain. It implies using the circumstances to benefit oneself without considering the possible negative impact on others.

take a hit The idiom "take a hit" is a slang expression that typically means to experience a negative consequence, setback, or loss as a result of a particular action or situation. It often refers to facing hardships, adversity, or difficulties, whether it be in personal, professional, or financial matters.

take an amount of money for sth The idiom "take an amount of money for something" refers to the act of accepting payment or charging a specific sum of money in exchange for a particular item or service. It implies that the person or business is requesting or demanding compensation for what they are offering.

take care of number one The idiom "take care of number one" means to prioritize oneself and one's own interests above others. It refers to the tendency of focusing on personal well-being and success rather than considering the needs or wishes of others.

can't take (one's) eyes off (of) (someone or something) The idiom "can't take (one's) eyes off (of) (someone or something)" means to be unable to stop watching or looking at someone or something because they are extremely captivating, fascinating, or intriguing. It implies that the person or thing is so visually captivating that it is difficult to divert attention away.

take cognizance of The idiom "take cognizance of" means to acknowledge, recognize, or take notice of something or someone, usually in an official or authoritative capacity. It implies giving attention or consideration to a particular matter.

take (something) for gospel The idiom "take (something) for gospel" means to believe or accept something as being unquestionably true or accurate without further investigation or doubt. It implies that one regards the information, statement, or belief as being absolutely reliable or trustworthy, often without critically examining its authenticity or validity.

take a liking to (someone or something) The idiom "take a liking to (someone or something)" means to develop a positive or favorable opinion, attraction, or affection towards a particular person or object. It implies a natural and spontaneous affinity or fondness that arises without much effort or initial intention.

take something amiss To take something amiss means to interpret or understand something wrongly or in a negative way. It refers to misunderstanding or misinterpreting someone's words, actions, or intentions and perceiving them as offensive, rude, or ill-intentioned.

take pity on sb The idiom "take pity on sb" means to feel compassion, empathy, or sympathy towards someone who is in a difficult or unfortunate situation and to show them kindness, support, or help.

take upon oneself The idiom "take upon oneself" means to assume or accept responsibility or a burden voluntarily, without any external pressure or obligation. It implies willingly taking on a task or duty, often out of a sense of duty, obligation, or personal initiative.

catch/take sb off guard The idiom "catch/take someone off guard" means to surprise or startle someone unexpectedly, often because they were not prepared or not expecting something to happen. It refers to the act of catching someone in a vulnerable or unguarded state, where they may be caught by surprise or caught off balance.

take care of sm or sth The idiom "take care of someone or something" means to fulfill the needs, protect, or attend to the well-being of someone or something. It implies assuming responsibility and providing assistance or support.

It will take some doing The idiom "It will take some doing" means that a task or situation will require considerable effort, work, or time to accomplish or resolve.

take the rap (for somebody/something) The idiom "take the rap (for somebody/something)" means to accept the blame or punishment for someone else's actions or mistakes. It refers to willingly assuming responsibility or facing consequences on behalf of someone else, often to protect them or to maintain their innocence.

take the blame (for doing something) The idiom "take the blame (for doing something)" means to accept responsibility or admit guilt for a mistake, wrongdoing, or failure, even if it wasn't solely one's fault. It involves willingly shouldering the negative consequences or repercussions in order to protect or spare others involved.

take the wrong way The idiom "take the wrong way" typically means to misunderstand or misconstrue someone's words or actions, often leading to offense or hurt feelings. It refers to interpreting something in a negative or unintended manner, causing friction or creating a misunderstanding between individuals.

take care (of yourself) The idiom "take care (of yourself)" is a phrase often used as a farewell or expression of concern for someone's well-being. It generally suggests that the person should prioritize their own physical and emotional well-being, look after themselves, and be cautious or vigilant in ensuring they stay safe and healthy.

take advantage of something/somebody The idiom "take advantage of something/somebody" means to exploit or utilize something or someone in a way that benefits oneself, often selfishly or unfairly, without considering the consequences or the well-being of others involved.

take the time The idiom "take the time" means to allocate or set aside enough time to complete a task or engage in an activity fully and without rushing. It emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself enough time to do something thoroughly and properly.

take hold of The idiom "take hold of" means to grasp something firmly or to gain control or understanding of something. It can also refer to having a strong influence on someone or something.

take a running jump! The idiom "take a running jump!" is typically said as an exclamation of frustration or dismissal, often used in a sarcastic or dismissive manner. It is used to tell someone to go away or to express disagreement with their suggestion or request. It implies that the person should leap or jump away while running, as if their presence or idea is unwelcome or unappreciated.

take a stroll/trip down memory lane The idiom "take a stroll/trip down memory lane" refers to the act of revisiting the past, reminiscing about past experiences, or recalling fond memories from one's personal history. It suggests going on a figurative journey through one's memories, often triggered by encountering familiar places, people, or objects from the past.

kick (sm) butt (and take names) The idiom "kick butt (and take names)" is an informal phrase that means to handle a situation or accomplish a task with great determination, perseverance, and success. It implies that the person is assertive, confident, and dominating in their actions, often overcoming obstacles or defeating opponents. The phrase can also suggest that the person is making a strong impression or impact on others while doing so.

take the mickey out of The phrase "take the mickey out of" is an idiomatic expression primarily used in British English, which means to mock, tease, or ridicule someone or something in a light-hearted or humorous manner. It involves making playful and often exaggerated jokes or satirical remarks about a person, situation, or behavior. It is similar to the American English idioms "make fun of" or "poke fun at."

take up the cudgels The idiom "take up the cudgels" means to actively defend or support a particular cause or idea. It originates from the literal meaning of a cudgel, which is a short, thick stick used as a weapon. By taking up the cudgels, one metaphorically takes a stand, fights, or becomes an advocate for something they believe in.

take liberties with The idiom "take liberties with" means to act with excessive freedom or disregard for boundaries, rules, or norms. It refers to a behavior of taking undue advantage, often in a disrespectful or improper manner, beyond what is considered acceptable or expected.

take or an animal in The idiom "take or an animal in" does not exist in English. It is likely a typo or a misinterpretation of another idiom.

take a gander at The idiom "take a gander at" means to take a quick look or glimpse at something.

take sth away from sb/sth The idiom "take something away from someone/something" generally means to extract or derive a particular lesson, experience, or understanding from a person or situation. It refers to gaining a valuable insight, knowledge, or value by being exposed to someone or something. It can also indicate the act of removing or confiscating something from someone or something. The specific meaning can vary depending on the context of usage.

take a firm line/stand (on/against something) The idiom "take a firm line/stand (on/against something)" means to adopt a strong, unwavering position or approach when dealing with a particular issue or situation. It implies refusing to compromise or deviate from a specific viewpoint, principle, or course of action.

take it easy The idiom "take it easy" means to relax, calm down, or adopt a less strenuous or intense approach towards something. It is often used as a friendly reminder or advice to someone to not exert themselves too much or to not worry excessively.

take a firm grip on sm or sth The idiom "take a firm grip on someone or something" means to have a strong and secure hold over someone or something, often in a figurative sense. It suggests taking control, maintaining authority, or demonstrating a determined and stringent approach towards a person or situation.

take a page out of (someone's) book The idiom "take a page out of (someone's) book" means to imitate or mimic someone's behavior or actions that have proven to be successful or effective. It refers to the act of adopting a similar approach or following the same principles as someone else, usually with the expectation of achieving similar positive results.

take (something) as it comes The idiom "take (something) as it comes" means to accept or handle a situation as it happens without trying to control or change it. It implies being adaptable and flexible, going with the flow, and not worrying too much about the future. It suggests being able to handle unpredictable or unforeseen events with ease and without excessive stress.

take solace (in sth) The idiom "take solace (in something)" means finding comfort, consolation, or relief in something during a difficult or distressing time. It is a way to seek solace or soothe one's feelings of sadness, disappointment, or grief by focusing on something positive or comforting.

draw/take a bead on sb/sth The idiom "draw/take a bead on sb/sth" means to aim or target someone or something, usually with a weapon or a focused intention. It can be used in a literal sense, where one aligns the sights of a firearm to accurately shoot at a specific target. Additionally, it can be used figuratively to express a focused determination to achieve a goal or to closely monitor and evaluate someone or something.

take a bath (on something) The idiom "take a bath (on something)" typically means to experience a financial loss or setback, often resulting from a poor business decision or investment. It implies that someone has suffered a substantial amount of money due to a particular endeavor or venture.

it doesn't take a rocket scientist to The idiom "it doesn't take a rocket scientist to" is used to suggest that something is relatively simple or straightforward and does not require exceptional intelligence or specialized knowledge to understand or figure out. It implies that the task or concept is so uncomplicated that anyone can grasp it without much difficulty.

take to one's legs The idiom "take to one's legs" means to start running or fleeing, especially to escape from a dangerous or threatening situation.

take a long, hard look at (something) The idiom "take a long, hard look at (something)" means to carefully and thoroughly examine or consider something, usually with the intention of gaining a deeper understanding or resolving a problem. It suggests taking a serious and critical view, often involving reflection or contemplation.

take a bath The idiom "take a bath" typically means to experience a significant financial loss or failure, especially in terms of investments, business ventures, or gambling.

take its toll The idiom "take its toll" means to cause damage or harm gradually over time, often resulting in a negative or detrimental impact on someone or something. It refers to the cumulative effect of hardship, stress, or wear and tear.

take account of sth, at take sth into account The idiom "take account of something" or "take something into account" means to consider or include something as a relevant or important factor when making a decision or forming an opinion. It suggests the act of giving proper consideration to all aspects or factors involved in a situation before reaching a conclusion.

take a dim view of somebody/something The idiom "take a dim view of somebody/something" means to have a negative or unfavorable opinion or judgment about someone or something. It implies being unimpressed, disapproving, or skeptical about the person or situation in question.

take heed (of sm or sth) The idiom "take heed (of sm or sth)" means to pay attention, be cautious, or be wary of someone or something. It implies being careful and considerate in order to avoid any potential danger, harm, or mistake.

take some beating The idiom "take some beating" means to be extremely difficult or challenging to surpass, defeat, or excel in a particular area or task. It implies that the thing being referred to is of high quality, exceptional, or unbeatable in comparison to others.

take charge The idiom "take charge" means to assume control or leadership in a situation or task. It implies that someone is stepping forward to be in command, making decisions and taking responsibility for the outcome.

take umbrage at sth To take umbrage at something means to feel or show offense, resentment, or displeasure towards it. It refers to the act of taking offense or feeling insulted by someone's words, actions, or behavior.

take the gas pipe The idiom "take the gas pipe" typically means to die or to meet a tragic end, often referring to suicide. It originated from the image of a person intentionally inhaling gas to end their life using a gas pipe or valve. This idiom is usually used in a figurative sense to imply a sudden and unfortunate demise or failure in a situation.

take off (on sth) The idiom "take off (on sth)" typically means to become successful or popular quickly, often in reference to a product, idea, or trend. It implies that the thing being referred to is gaining significant attention or recognition.

take to one's heels The definition of the idiom "take to one's heels" is to run away quickly or flee in order to escape from a dangerous or threatening situation.

make/take a note The idiom "make/take a note" means to write down or record information that is being provided or discussed for future reference or remembrance. It implies the act of actively taking down important details or instructions.

take each day as it comes/take it one day at a time The idiom "take each day as it comes" or "take it one day at a time" means to deal with situations or challenges as they occur, without worrying too much about the future. It suggests focusing on the present moment and not getting overwhelmed by the uncertainties of the future. It emphasizes the importance of living in the present and not getting consumed by or fixated on future events or outcomes.

take away The idiom "take away" has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. Here are a few definitions for this idiom: 1. To remove or separate something from its original position or place. 2. To perceive or understand the main point or lesson from a situation or experience. 3. In the food industry, it refers to the option of purchasing food from a restaurant or establishment to be consumed outside the premises. 4. In mathematics, it refers to subtracting a number or quantity from another. 5. In a broader sense, it can mean the action of removing something from a person's life, routine, or environment.

take exception to The idiom "take exception to" means to strongly disagree with or be offended by something, usually expressing one's dissatisfaction openly or arguing against it.

take names The idiom "take names" typically means to assert dominance, demonstrate power or authority, and leave a lasting impression on others through one's actions, skills, or accomplishments. It implies a forceful or assertive approach to achieve recognition or success.

take the air The idiom "take the air" typically means to go outside, especially for fresh air and to take a leisurely walk or spend time outdoors. It refers to engaging in outdoor activities, often to relax or clear one's mind.

take a drag (on something) The idiom "take a drag (on something)" typically refers to inhaling smoke from a cigarette, cigar, or any other form of smoking device. It means to pull or draw in the smoke into one's mouth and lungs.

take someone's life The idiom "take someone's life" refers to intentionally causing someone's death or ending their existence. It implies the act of killing another person.

take sth as gospel The idiom "take something as gospel" means to believe or accept something as entirely true or unquestionable, without any doubt or skepticism. It suggests that the information or belief is viewed as being absolutely reliable, similar to the religious texts or gospel being accepted without question.

take cold The idiom "take cold" refers to becoming infected with a common cold, typically resulting from exposure to cold weather or close contact with someone who is already sick. It means to catch a cold or to become ill with symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, and fever.

take in hand To "take in hand" means to assume control or responsibility for something or someone. It implies actively and directly dealing with a situation or taking charge of a person's guidance or management.

take sth public The idiom "take something public" refers to the act of making something known or widely shared, usually by sharing information or disclosing details to the public. It can refer to various situations, such as making an official announcement, revealing previously private information, or exposing a matter to public scrutiny or discussion.

take the heat out of (something) The idiom "take the heat out of (something)" means to calm down a situation or eliminate the intensity or tension in a particular matter. It suggests reducing the pressure, conflict, or emotion associated with an issue or situation.

not take (something) sitting down The idiom "not take (something) sitting down" means to not accept or tolerate something passively or without resistance. It implies taking action or standing up for oneself in the face of injustice, opposition, or unfavorable circumstances.

take care of the pennies, and the pounds will take care of themselves The idiom "take care of the pennies, and the pounds will take care of themselves" means that by being cautious and conscious of small or minor expenses (pennies), one can accumulate or save a significant amount of money (pounds) over time. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention to small details and being mindful of one's spending habits in order to achieve financial stability or success in the long run.

knock/take the stuffing out of sb/sth The idiom "knock/take the stuffing out of sb/sth" refers to the act of completely exhausting or demoralizing someone or something, often resulting in a loss of enthusiasm, energy, or confidence. It implies a heavy blow or setback that significantly diminishes someone's or something's spirit or effectiveness.

take the heat off sb The idiom "take the heat off sb" means to divert or reduce the pressure, criticism, or attention aimed at someone, typically by shifting it onto oneself or another person or by distracting from the issue. It is often used figuratively, implying that someone is intervening or providing relief for someone else in a difficult or contentious situation.

take sm or sth aboard The idiom "take someone or something aboard" typically refers to the action of accepting or including someone or something into a group, project, or organization. It can also imply to mentally consider or acknowledge an idea, suggestion, or viewpoint. In a literal sense, it can mean to bring someone or something onto a ship, vehicle, or aircraft. Overall, it denotes the act of welcoming someone or something into a particular situation or context.

take a collection up (from sm) (for sm or sth) The idiom "take a collection up (from someone) (for someone or something)" means to gather or collect money or donations from someone for a specific cause, individual, or purpose. It often refers to a group of people joining together to contribute funds towards a particular need or charity.

take a chill pill The idiom "take a chill pill" means to relax or calm down in a situation where someone is overly stressed, anxious, or agitated. It implies the need for the person to take a break, unwind, and regain composure.

take away from sth The idiom "take away from sth" means to diminish or detract from the quality, importance, value, or impact of something. It implies that an element or factors are diminishing or reducing the positive aspects or overall effect of something.

take off from work The idiom "take off from work" refers to the action of requesting time off or taking a temporary absence from one's job or workplace. It means to be absent from work for personal or recreational purposes, often requiring permission or approval from superiors or following established protocols within the organization.

take a crack at The idiom "take a crack at" means to attempt or try something, often with uncertainty about success. It refers to making an effort or giving something a try, especially when the outcome is uncertain.

take it to the street The idiom "take it to the street" refers to a situation where individuals or groups publicly express their opinions, concerns, or grievances through public demonstrations, protests, or other forms of direct action usually conducted on the streets or in public spaces. It implies taking an issue outside of closed doors, engaging with the larger public, and advocating for change or resolution in a public and visible manner.

take (to) the floor The idiom "take (to) the floor" typically means to begin, start, or assume a position or role in a performance or event, usually referring to dancing or speaking in public. It implies that someone is actively engaging or participating in a particular activity or situation.

take a whack at (doing) something The idiom "take a whack at (doing) something" means to give something a try, attempt, or make an effort to do or achieve something, especially when facing a challenging or unfamiliar task. It implies taking a shot or making an earnest attempt.

head for (or take to) the hills The idiom "head for (or take to) the hills" typically means to escape or flee from a dangerous or difficult situation, often seeking refuge in remote or distant areas, especially in nature or rural settings.

take the mick/mickey The idiom "take the mick/mickey" means to mock or make fun of someone or something, often in a lighthearted or playful manner. It can also imply teasing or gently teasing someone for their behavior, actions, or words.

take aim (at sm, sth, or an animal) The idiom "take aim" means to prepare to shoot or attack someone, something, or an animal. It is often used figuratively to describe focusing one's attention or efforts towards a specific target, either in a literal or metaphorical sense.

take sm or sth by surprise The idiom "take someone or something by surprise" refers to catching someone or something off guard or unexpectedly. It means to surprise or astonish someone, often resulting in a confused or bewildered reaction.

take a leak The idiom "take a leak" is an informal expression commonly used to mean urinating or going to the bathroom to relieve oneself by urinating.

take a dim (or poor) view of To "take a dim (or poor) view of" means to disapprove of or have a negative opinion about something or someone. It suggests that the person's judgment or perception of the situation is not favorable or positive.

on the take The idiom "on the take" refers to someone who is involved in dishonest or unethical activities, typically accepting bribes or illegal payments in exchange for a service, favor, or influence. It implies that the person is corrupt or engaged in illicit behavior for personal gain.

take sth in (one's) stride To "take something in one's stride" means to accept or deal with a difficult or challenging situation in a relaxed or composed manner, without becoming overly worried or upset. It implies the ability to handle obstacles or setbacks calmly and confidently, without being significantly affected or deterred by them.

take a message to Garcia "Take a message to Garcia" is an idiom that refers to completing a difficult task with determination, initiative, and efficiency, without questioning or doubting the instructions given. It originated from Elbert Hubbard's 1899 essay "A Message to Garcia," which narrates the importance of finding individuals who can be relied upon to carry out tasks without the need for excessive explanations or supervision. The idiom conveys the idea of exceptional work ethic, self-motivation, and the ability to accept and execute tasks promptly and efficiently.

take the lid off The idiom "take the lid off" typically means to expose or reveal something that was previously hidden or secret. It can refer to uncovering deception, disclosing hidden information or secrets, or bringing awareness to a situation or issue.

Take the goods the gods provide The idiom "Take the goods the gods provide" means to accept or be grateful for the opportunities or blessings that come your way, without questioning or complaining about their source or origin. It implies being content with what one has and not being overly concerned about the details or origins of something beneficial that has been obtained.

take the fall (for somebody/something) The idiom "take the fall (for somebody/something)" means to accept blame or punishment on behalf of someone else, often in a situation where both parties are guilty or responsible, in order to protect or shield the other person from negative consequences.

can't take eyes off The idiom "can't take eyes off" means to be absolutely captivated or compelled by something or someone, making it impossible to divert or remove one's gaze from them. It implies a strong fascination or interest that prevents one from looking away or being distracted by anything else.

take somebody/something at face value The idiom "take somebody/something at face value" means accepting or believing someone or something for what they appear to be or what they claim, without questioning or doubting their true intentions or meaning. It implies accepting information or appearances without skepticism or deeper analysis.

take/need a cold shower The expression "take/need a cold shower" is an idiom used to imply that someone needs to calm down or control their emotions, desires, or impulses. It suggests that the person in question is experiencing intense feelings or arousal and that a cold shower may provide temporary relief or help regain composure.

take to pieces The idiom "take to pieces" generally means to dismantle or disassemble something, often in order to understand it better, repair or modify it, or study its components in detail. It can also be used metaphorically to describe closely analyzing or critiquing a concept, argument, or someone's work in a thorough and systematic manner.

take (something) with a grain of salt The idiom "take (something) with a grain of salt" means to be skeptical or doubtful about the veracity or accuracy of information or statements, and not to fully believe or rely on them without question.

take after The idiom "take after" means to resemble or have similar characteristics to a family member, usually in terms of physical appearance, personality traits, or talents.

take the law into (one's) own hands The idiom "take the law into (one's) own hands" means to act as a vigilante or to seek justice or revenge outside of the legal system or without proper authority. It implies that someone is bypassing the established laws or legal procedures to address an issue or situation according to their own judgment or personal sense of justice.

take off after The idiom "take off after" typically means to pursue someone or something vigorously, usually with the intention of catching or following them closely.

take the wraps off sth The idiom "take the wraps off something" means to reveal or expose something that was previously concealed or hidden. It can refer to unveiling new information, introducing a new product or idea to the public, or making something previously unknown or secret known to others.

take off The idiom "take off" means to leave or depart, often in a hurry or abruptly. It can also refer to achieving sudden success or popularity in a particular field or endeavor.

take sth away (from sm or sth) The idiom "take something away (from someone or something)" typically means to remove or subtract something, often with the effect of reducing the value, quality, or importance of that person or thing. It can also refer to the act of seizing or confiscating something.

take amiss To "take amiss" means to interpret or receive something in a negative or offensive way, often perceiving it as an insult, criticism, or personal offense, even if it was not intended to be so. It implies feeling offended, displeased, or aggrieved by someone's words or actions.

take sth on the chin To "take something on the chin" means to accept or endure something difficult or unpleasant without complaining or resisting. It suggests being strong and resilient in the face of adversity, gracefully accepting the consequences or hardships that come your way.

take a leaf out of sb's book The idiom "take a leaf out of someone's book" means to imitate or adopt someone's behavior, actions, or approach that has proven to be successful or admirable. It suggests learning from someone's positive qualities or strategies and applying them in one's own life or situation.

not take your eyes off somebody/something The idiom "not take your eyes off somebody/something" means to continuously watch and pay close attention to someone or something, not allowing oneself to be distracted or lose sight of them/it. It implies being vigilant, focused, and attentive, often due to a sense of caution or interest in the person or thing being observed.

take the fifth (amendment) The idiom "take the fifth (amendment)" refers to an individual invoking their constitutional right not to incriminate oneself when questioned or during legal proceedings. It originates from the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which grants individuals the privilege against self-incrimination, ensuring they cannot be compelled to testify against themselves. Taking the fifth usually signifies the refusal to answer specific questions or provide potentially damaging information that may lead to legal consequences.

take it slow The idiom "take it slow" means to proceed or progress at a relaxed or leisurely pace, usually in order to be cautious, thorough, or deliberate in one's actions or decisions. It implies not rushing or speeding up the process and emphasizes the importance of patience and carefulness.

take a bite out of The idiom "take a bite out of" means to reduce or decrease something significantly, usually referring to the impact it has on a certain situation or objective. It can also imply creating a noticeable dent or impact on a problem or obstacle.

take someone or something apart The idiom "take someone or something apart" means to criticize, analyze, or scrutinize someone or something thoroughly, often with the intention of finding flaws or weaknesses. It can also refer to physically dismantling or disassembling an object.

can't stand/take the pace The idiom "can't stand/take the pace" means that someone is unable to endure or keep up with the speed, intensity, or demands of a certain situation or activity. It implies that the person is finding it difficult to cope or endure due to the fast pace or high-pressure nature of the situation.

take the wind out of somebodyâ€™s sails The idiom "take the wind out of somebodyâ€™s sails" means to undermine or deflate someone's confidence, enthusiasm, or excitement, typically by saying or doing something that dampens their spirits or diminishes their achievements. It involves interrupting or diminishing their momentum or feeling of success, leaving them disappointed or discouraged.

Take my word for it The idiom "Take my word for it" means to trust or believe what someone is saying without needing further evidence or proof. It is an expression indicating that the speaker is assuring the truthfulness or accuracy of their statement.

take your cue from somebody/something The idiom "take your cue from somebody/something" means to observe and follow the actions or behavior of someone or something as a guide or clue for your own conduct or decisions. It suggests that you should pay attention to their lead and adapt your actions accordingly.

take a licking but keep on ticking The idiom "take a licking but keep on ticking" means to endure difficulties, setbacks, or physical hardships without giving up or being defeated. It emphasizes the ability to withstand challenges and continue functioning or moving forward. This idiomatic expression often originates from the durability or resilience of a person or an object.

take out a loan The idiom "take out a loan" means to borrow a specific amount of money from a financial institution or lender with the agreement to repay it within a specified period of time, usually with interest.

take sb to the cleaner's The idiom "take sb to the cleaner's" typically means to exploit or cheat someone, often by taking all their money or possessions.

take off hat The idiom "take off hat" generally refers to expressing admiration, respect, or appreciation for someone or something. It is used figuratively to acknowledge someone's achievements, skills, or qualities. It often conveys a sense of deep admiration or praise.

take something to extremes The idiom "take something to extremes" means to exceed reasonable or normal limits in thoughts, actions, or behavior. It implies going beyond what is considered typical or expected, often in an excessive or exaggerated way.

take aim The idiom "take aim" means to carefully prepare or position oneself in order to accomplish a goal or target, often with the intention of criticizing, attacking, or dealing with a specific situation or person. It can also refer to the action of preparing to shoot a weapon by aligning it to accurately hit a target.

take it to grave The idiom "take it to the grave" means to keep a secret or piece of information confidential and not disclose it to anyone else, even when faced with extreme pressure or temptation. It implies that the person is willing to keep the secret with them until their death, remaining loyal and trustworthy.

take a stroll down memory lane The idiom "take a stroll down memory lane" means to engage in a nostalgic recollection or reflection of past events or memories. It refers to revisiting or reminiscing about one's personal history or experiences, often with a sense of fondness or sentimentality.

take the salute The idiom "take the salute" refers to an act of acknowledging or showing respect to a group of people, typically of a military or ceremonial nature, by raising one's hand to the forehead or giving a formal greeting while they pass in review. It is often performed by a person in authority as a sign of recognition and appreciation for the individuals being saluted.

take (one) aback The idiom "take (one) aback" means to surprise or astonish someone, often by saying or doing something unexpected or unusual. It refers to the act of catching someone off guard, causing them to be momentarily stunned or taken by surprise.

take your breath away The idiom "take your breath away" means to be amazed, astonished, or overwhelmed by something's beauty, magnitude, or shocking nature. It refers to a moment or experience that leaves a person momentarily speechless or breathless due to its extraordinary impact or emotional intensity.

take each day as it comes The idiom "take each day as it comes" means to live in the present moment and deal with things as they happen, without worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. It refers to adopting a mindset of focusing on the immediate tasks or challenges of the day, rather than getting overwhelmed by the uncertainties of the future. It encourages taking a more flexible and relaxed approach to life, emphasizing acceptance and adaptability.

take sm or sth into account The idiom "take someone or something into account" means to consider or include someone or something when making a decision, judgment, or calculation. It suggests acknowledging the importance or influence of the mentioned person or thing in order to make a fair or accurate assessment or decision.

take sth by the throat The idiom "take something by the throat" means to confront or handle a situation or problem directly and assertively, without hesitation or fear. It implies a forceful and determined approach to overcome or control something.

take a chance on The idiom "take a chance on" means to willingly or knowingly take a risk or gamble on someone or something, often with uncertain outcomes or potential consequences. It typically refers to making a decision or choice that involves uncertainty or an element of risk, in hopes of achieving a positive outcome or result. It implies being willing to embrace the possibility of failure or disappointment in order to seize an opportunity or explore new possibilities.

take sb's part To "take someone's part" means to support or defend someone in a conflict or argument. It means to take a position in favor of someone, especially when others are criticizing or opposing them. It shows loyalty and solidarity towards the person whose side you are taking.

take its course The idiom "take its course" means to allow events or situations to develop naturally or unfold according to their usual or expected course without any interference or intervention. It suggests accepting the outcome, whether positive or negative, as a result of natural progression or natural consequences.

take sm below The idiom "take someone below" typically means to bring someone down, either physically or metaphorically, to a lower level or status. It may refer to demoting someone or diminishing their authority, or taking them to a lower position or place.

take after sb The idiom "take after sb" means to resemble or share similar characteristics with someone, especially a parent, sibling, or relative. It suggests that an individual has inherited physical, personality, or behavioral traits from another person, often in terms of appearance, talents, or habits.

accept/take sth as gospel (truth) The idiom "accept/take something as gospel (truth)" means to believe or accept something as completely true, without questioning or doubting it. It implies accepting information or statements as unquestionable facts, similar to how religious teachings or scriptures are accepted without skepticism.

take part To take part means to participate or engage in a certain activity, event, or endeavor. It refers to joining an activity or being involved in something actively or willingly.

take sm or sth for granted To take someone or something for granted means to not fully appreciate or value them, often due to assuming they will always be available or present. It implies a lack of recognition or gratitude for the importance or contributions of a person or thing in one's life.

take sm aside The idiom "take someone aside" refers to the act of pulling or leading someone away from a group or a public setting in order to have a private conversation or discussion with them. It usually suggests a need for privacy or discretion.

take a fancy to sm or sth The idiom "take a fancy to someone or something" means to develop a sudden and strong liking or attraction towards someone or something. It implies a sense of being interested or captivated by the person or thing in question.

take the piss The idiom "take the piss" is a slang expression primarily used in British English and is commonly defined as mocking, teasing, or jokingly ridiculing someone or something. It typically involves making lighthearted fun or sarcastic remarks, often with a humorous intent.

take/pick up the gauntlet The idiom "take/pick up the gauntlet" means to accept a challenge or invitation, especially in a bold or confrontational manner. It originated from medieval times when a gauntlet (a metal glove) was thrown down by a knight as a challenge for a duel, and picking up the gauntlet signified acceptance of the challenge. In a figurative sense, it refers to bravely facing a difficult situation or engaging in a competition.

take a hard line on sb/sth To "take a hard line on somebody/something" means to adopt a strict or uncompromising stance or policy towards someone or something, especially when it comes to making decisions or dealing with issues. It involves being firm, uncompromising, and unwilling to make concessions or accommodate opposing views.

take (one's) ball and go home The idiom "take (one's) ball and go home" refers to a situation where someone becomes upset or frustrated and decides to withdraw from participating in an activity, event, or group, often because they are not getting their way or faced with a disagreement. It implies a childish or petulant behavior where one chooses to remove themselves from a situation rather than to work towards a resolution or compromise.

take the wind out of someone's sails The idiom "take the wind out of someone's sails" means to diminish someone's enthusiasm, confidence, or momentum by saying or doing something that discourages or deflates them. It can also refer to undermining or stealing someone's thunder by preempting their ideas, achievements, or plans.

take a walk! The idiom "take a walk!" is an informal expression that means to go away, leave, or depart immediately. It is often used as a command or a way to dismiss someone angrily or forcefully.

take the rap The idiom "take the rap" means to accept responsibility or punishment for something, often on behalf of someone else, even if one is not guilty.

allow nature to take its course The idiom "allow nature to take its course" means to let things happen naturally, without interference or intervention. It suggests not trying to control or manipulate a situation, but rather, letting events unfold naturally and accepting the outcome.

take oneâ€™s belt in a notch The idiom "take oneâ€™s belt in a notch" means to tighten one's budget or reduce one's spending in order to save money. It often implies making financial sacrifices and cutting back on unnecessary expenses. Just as tightening a belt by moving it to a smaller notch results in a snug fit, this idiom suggests adjusting one's lifestyle or spending habits to accommodate limited resources.

take someone/something apart The idiom "take someone/something apart" means to thoroughly analyze or scrutinize someone or something, often by criticizing or examining it in great detail. It can also refer to systematically dismantling or disassembling an object or structure.

take oneâ€™s belt in The idiom "take oneâ€™s belt in" refers to the act of tightening or cinching one's belt. It metaphorically indicates a reduction in spending, living within one's means, or adopting a more frugal lifestyle. It symbolizes the need to be more economical or restrained due to financial constraints or a change in circumstances.

take stock in The idiom "take stock in" means to place significance or belief in someone or something, or to regard as important and trustworthy.

take sm hostage The idiom "take someone hostage" refers to the act of forcibly seizing or detaining someone against their will to use them as a means to obtain certain demands or objectives. It is often used metaphorically to describe situations where one person or group has control over another and uses this control to manipulate or control their actions.

take the biscuit The idiom "take the biscuit" is an expression generally used in British English to mean that something or someone is particularly surprising, remarkable, or outrageous, often in a negative way. It can imply that something or someone has gone beyond what is considered acceptable or normal.

take sth to heart The idiom "take something to heart" means to be deeply affected or influenced by something, often taking it very seriously or personally. It refers to internalizing or considering something deeply and allowing it to significantly impact one's feelings, thoughts, or actions.

take into custody The idiom "take into custody" refers to the act of apprehending or arresting an individual and holding them under the control or authority of law enforcement or other authorities. It typically implies the removal of an individual's freedom and their placement in a detention center or jail for legal reasons.

take the long view To "take the long view" means to consider or plan for the future rather than focusing solely on the present moment or immediate concerns. It is about adopting a perspective that considers the long-term consequences, benefits, or challenges associated with a particular situation or decision. It often involves looking beyond short-term obstacles or difficulties to prioritize sustainable growth or success in the future.

take somebody/something in hand The idiom "take somebody/something in hand" means to assume control or responsibility for overseeing or managing a person or situation. It implies taking charge to guide or direct someone or something towards a desired outcome or improvement.

take the words right out of someone's mouth The idiom "take the words right out of someone's mouth" means to say exactly what someone else was about to say, often demonstrating a high level of agreement or shared understanding. It implies that the person speaking has accurately articulated the thoughts, feelings, or opinions of another person before they themselves have had the opportunity to express them.

take a gander (at sm or sth) The idiom "take a gander" means to take a quick or casual look at someone or something. It is often used to suggest casually observing or inspecting without giving too much attention or scrutiny.

take sides against The idiom "take sides against" means to support or align oneself with one party or viewpoint in opposition to another. It implies choosing one side in a conflict or disagreement, often by expressing favoritism or bias towards that side while opposed to the other.

take kindly to The idiom "take kindly to" means to react or respond positively to something or someone. It implies a favorable or friendly disposition towards a particular situation, action, or individual.

take the gloss off sth The idiom "take the gloss off something" means to detract from or diminish the attractiveness, appeal, or quality of something. It implies that something negative or disappointing has occurred, reducing the positive impression or impact of a particular thing or situation.

take something into consideration The idiom "take something into consideration" means to carefully think about or give attention to a particular factor or aspect of a situation when making a decision or forming an opinion. It implies that one should consider all relevant information or factors before making a judgment or taking action.

take a pop at sm The idiom "take a pop at someone" means to criticize or attack someone verbally or physically, often without any particular reason or provocation. It implies taking a shot or making an attempt to harm or undermine the person in question.

take advantage The idiom "take advantage" means to exploit or make use of someone or something for personal gain or benefit, often in an unfair or selfish manner. It refers to the act of using a situation or circumstance to one's advantage without considering the feelings or well-being of others involved.

take a nap The idiom "take a nap" means to have a short sleep, usually during the daytime or in between tasks, in order to rest and recharge. It refers to the act of briefly closing your eyes and dozing off for a brief period of time.

take hold The idiom "take hold" means to establish a strong or firm grip or control over something, often referring to a situation or an idea gaining traction or becoming influential. It can also imply the process of something becoming successful or beginning to exert its influence or effect.

take sm off "Take someone off" or "take someone off of" is an idiom that means to remove, withdraw, or eliminate someone from a particular situation, usually due to their inappropriate behavior or unsuitability. It can also refer to removing someone from a specific task or responsibility.

take turns The idiom "take turns" means to alternate or to share something equally among a group of people, where each person or party gets an opportunity or chance to do or have something in a sequence or rotation.

take sm into one's confidence The idiom "take someone into one's confidence" means to trust and share confidential or private information or feelings with someone. It suggests involving someone in a secret or personal matter, usually with the intention of seeking their advice or support in a trustworthy manner.

take leave The idiom "take leave" generally refers to the act of bidding farewell or departing from a person, place, or situation. It can be used when someone is leaving a job, taking a break, or saying goodbye to someone or something temporarily or permanently.

take sb at their word The idiom "take someone at their word" means to believe or trust that what someone says is true or accurate without questioning or doubting their honesty. It implies accepting their statements or promises without further investigation or confirmation.

take five (or ten, etc.) The idiom "take five (or ten, etc.)" means to take a short break or pause from an activity or work for a few minutes. It is often used to indicate taking a rest or stepping away briefly to relax, refresh, or recharge.

take sb's name in vain The idiom "take someone's name in vain" means to use someone's name, typically a divine or revered figure, in a disrespectful or irreverent manner. It refers to the act of using a person's name without true understanding or respect for their significance, often for trivial or inappropriate purposes.

take away from sm or sth The idiom "take away from someone or something" means to diminish or reduce the value, importance, or quality of someone or something. It suggests that there is a negative impact or detracting effect on the mentioned person or thing.

give and take The idiom "give and take" refers to a balanced and mutually beneficial interaction or negotiation where both parties make concessions or compromises in order to reach a satisfactory outcome. It encapsulates the idea of compromise, flexibility, and cooperation in a give-and-take relationship or situation.

take note of sm or sth The idiom "take note of someone or something" means to pay attention to or acknowledge someone or something. It implies that the subject or object being referenced is worthy of consideration or deserves special attention.

take a dig at someone The idiom "take a dig at someone" means to make a critical or sarcastic remark about someone, usually in an attempt to mock or belittle them. It refers to delivering a figurative jab or slight towards the person in question, often done subtly or indirectly.

take up arms (against someone or something) The idiom "take up arms against someone or something" means to engage in a struggle or conflict, typically involving physical force or warfare, in opposition to a person or group or in defense of a cause or principle. It implies the act of arming oneself and actively fighting against the targeted person, group, or issue.

take the Browns to the Super Bowl The idiom "take the Browns to the Super Bowl" is a humorous and sarcastic phrase primarily used in American English. It is often used figuratively to describe the act of going to the bathroom or having a bowel movement. The phrase suggests that the individual has no chance or intention of accomplishing an unrealistic or unlikely goal, similar to the Cleveland Browns (American football team) reaching the Super Bowl, which has not happened as of 2021.

take ownership (of) The idiom "take ownership (of)" means to accept or acknowledge responsibility for something, often implying a commitment to ensuring its success or resolving any issues related to it. It refers to the act of assuming control, accountability, or authority over a project, task, problem, or situation.

take somebody/something to the mat The idiom "take somebody/something to the mat" typically refers to a situation where someone confronts or engages in a conflict or dispute with full determination and intensity. It often suggests a willingness to go to great lengths or fight fiercely in order to achieve a desired outcome or defend one's position. The phrase has its origins in wrestling, where "the mat" refers to the floor of the wrestling ring.

take/tickle sb's fancy To "take/tickle someone's fancy" means to attract or appeal to someone's interest or curiosity. It implies that something has caught their attention or aroused their desire to explore or pursue it further.

take advantage (of sb) The idiom "take advantage of (someone)" means to exploit or use someone's weakness, lack of knowledge, or vulnerability for one's own benefit or gain, often in a selfish or unfair manner.

take it out of The idiom "take it out of" means to exhaust or tire someone mentally, physically, or emotionally due to a demanding or strenuous situation or task. It implies that a particular experience or activity has depleted a person's energy or resources, leaving them drained.

take the fall The idiom "take the fall" means to accept the blame or punishment for something, often to protect someone else or to avoid implicating others who may be involved. It implies willingly assuming responsibility for a mistake, wrongdoing, or failure, even if one is not entirely at fault.

take (someone or something) at face value The phrase "take (someone or something) at face value" means to accept or believe in someone or something exactly as they appear or present themselves, without questioning or analyzing further. It implies not reading into hidden meanings, ulterior motives, or deeper intentions.

take sm or sth away (from sm or sth) The idiom "take someone or something away (from someone or something)" means to remove, detract, or separate someone or something from a particular person or thing. It often implies a loss, deprivation, or reduction in value or importance.

take the stand The idiom "take the stand" refers to the act of being sworn in as a witness in a court of law, and then proceeding to give testimony by answering questions posed by the lawyers or the judge.

take someone hostage The idiom "take someone hostage" means to capture, detain, or control a person against their will, typically in order to gain some form of advantage or power. It involves using someone as leverage or a bargaining chip to achieve certain goals or make demands.

take the King's (or Queen's) shilling The idiom "take the King's (or Queen's) shilling" refers to accepting a payment or reward in exchange for one's loyalty or submission, often to a higher authority or institution. It originates from the practice of British monarchs offering a shilling to individuals who enlisted in the military or joined their service, symbolizing a commitment to serve and obey the king or queen. By accepting the shilling, one effectively pledges their loyalty and becomes bound to follow the king or queen's orders. The idiom can also connote surrendering one's independence or principles in favor of the benefits or comforts offered.

take side The idiom "take sides" means to align oneself with a particular person or group in a dispute or conflict, showing support or loyalty to them, often at the expense of the opposing party.

take a crack at (doing) something The idiom "take a crack at (doing) something" means to attempt or try something, often for the first time, with the intention of achieving success or solving a problem. It implies taking a shot or making an effort towards achieving a goal, regardless of the possibility of failure.

take apart The idiom "take apart" means to dismantle or disassemble something, usually in order to understand its structure or to fix it. It can also refer to analyzing or criticizing someone's argument or idea in a thorough and systematic manner.

(really) take the cake, at (really) take the biscuit The idiom "(really) take the cake" or "take the biscuit" is used to describe a situation or behavior that is exceptionally outrageous, surprising, or absurd. It denotes that something or someone has gone to the extreme and surpassed all expectations, good or bad. It implies that the person or thing being referred to is the most remarkable or outstanding in a particular context, often in a negative way.

winner take all The idiom "winner take all" refers to a competitive situation where the ultimate victor takes the entire prize or reward, leaving nothing for the other participants. It implies that there are no second or third place winners and that only the person or entity that achieves first place gets the entire benefits or rewards.

take sth out in trade The idiom "take something out in trade" refers to a situation where someone accepts a different item or service instead of receiving cash as a form of payment or exchange. It often implies a barter or exchanging goods or services instead of using monetary means.

take on fuel The idiom "take on fuel" refers to the act of replenishing or refueling something, typically a vehicle or a machine, with the necessary fuel or energy to continue functioning or operating. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the restocking or rejuvenating of oneself with energy or motivation.

take/sign the pledge The idiom "take/sign the pledge" refers to making a solemn commitment or promise, often in written form, to abstain from a particular behavior or adhere to a specific course of action. It typically involves a formal declaration or agreement to stay true to certain principles or values. This idiom is commonly used in contexts related to initiatives promoting sobriety, abstinence, or dedication to a cause.

take a battering The idiom "take a battering" means to endure a severe or prolonged period of difficulty, criticism, or physical punishment. It conveys the idea of being subjected to continuous or relentless attacks or challenges that can cause significant harm or damage.

take/have a knock The idiom "take/have a knock" typically means to experience a setback, setback, criticism, or failure. It refers to a situation where someone or something suffers a blow or is negatively affected by an event.

take a breath The idiom "take a breath" means to pause, relax, or give oneself a moment to gather one's thoughts or composure before continuing or making a decision. It suggests the need to slow down, take a break, or step back momentarily from a situation to regain focus or clarity.

take sick The idiomatic expression "take sick" refers to the act of falling ill or becoming unwell. It implies the onset of an illness or experiencing symptoms that indicate sickness or poor health.

take sides The idiom "take sides" refers to choosing to support or align oneself with one person, group, or opinion, especially in the context of a conflict or disagreement. It means to show partiality or favoritism towards one side over another.

take your hat off to sb The idiom "take your hat off to sb" means to express admiration, respect, or recognition for someone's achievements, abilities, or character traits. It is a figurative way of acknowledging someone's exceptional qualities or accomplishments.

take the count The idiom "take the count" refers to someone being knocked down or defeated, especially in boxing or a physical confrontation. It is often used metaphorically to describe a person who has suffered a significant setback, failure, or defeat in any area of life.

take a bow The idiom "take a bow" means to acknowledge and accept praise or applause for one's achievements, performance, or success. It originated from the action of a performer or artist bowing as a sign of gratitude and appreciation for the audience at the end of a show or act.

take someone or something into account The idiom "take someone or something into account" means to consider, acknowledge, or include a particular person or thing when making a decision, forming an opinion, or calculating something. It indicates that the individual or entity in question is being taken into consideration as a relevant factor or aspect.

take (one's) hat off to (someone or something) The idiom "take (one's) hat off to (someone or something)" means to express admiration, respect, or acknowledgement for someone or something's achievements, skills, qualities, or actions. It is used to recognize and give credit to someone for their impressive or exceptional qualities, often in a figurative sense as if removing one's hat as a sign of respect.

take a leak/have a leak The idiom "take a leak" or "have a leak" is a slang phrase referring to the act of urination or going to the toilet to relieve oneself. It is often used informally and casually in conversation.

take for a ride The idiom "take for a ride" means to deceive, trick, or scam someone for personal gain or to exploit them in some way. It can also imply taking someone on an unnecessary or lengthy journey with the intention of wasting their time or taking advantage of them.

take note (of sb/sth) The idiom "take note (of sb/sth)" means to pay attention to or acknowledge someone or something. It implies that one should make a mental or written record of the information or observation for future reference or consideration.

take note of sth The idiom "take note of something" means to pay attention to or make a mental or written record of something, usually with the intention of remembering or acknowledging it in the future. It implies a level of importance or significance attached to the information or situation being observed.

take comfort in (something) The idiom "take comfort in (something)" means to find solace or reassurance in a specific thing or situation. It implies deriving emotional or psychological support from something, often during difficult or challenging times.

I can take it or leave it The idiom "I can take it or leave it" means that someone is indifferent to or has no strong preference for something. They are stating that it is of no great importance to them and they can easily live without it or they are willing to accept it if it happens.

take the place of The idiom "take the place of" means to assume someone's role or position in a similar capacity, or to replace something or someone with another. It implies acting as a substitute or filling a void left by someone or something.

take the weight off your feet/legs The idiom "take the weight off your feet/legs" means to rest or relieve oneself from physical exertion or strain by sitting down or finding support for the body, typically when one's feet or legs are tired or sore. It implies finding a temporary respite or relaxation from standing or walking for an extended period.

take (great) pains (to do something) The idiom "take (great) pains (to do something)" means to make a significant effort or show great care in doing something. It implies that one is willing to go to great lengths or exert extra effort to attain a desired outcome or ensure careful execution.

take leave of The idiom "take leave of" means to say goodbye or bid farewell to someone before leaving or departing from a place or situation. It emphasizes the act of parting from someone or something temporarily or permanently.

take stock (of something) To take stock of something means to evaluate or assess a situation, typically with the intention of making a decision or forming an opinion. It involves carefully considering and reviewing the relevant factors, circumstances, or resources before proceeding further.

take on oneself The idiom "take on oneself" means to assume or accept responsibility for a task or obligation without being asked or required to do so. It implies willingly taking on a task or burden without being assigned or obligated to it.

take the pulse of The idiom "take the pulse of" means to gauge or assess the overall condition, mood, or opinion of a particular situation, group of people, or organization. It refers to gathering information or feedback to understand the current state or sentiment.

take a backseat (to someone or something) The idiom "take a backseat (to someone or something)" means to assume a subordinate or less prominent position in relation to someone or something else. It implies that you are allowing someone or something else to take a leading role or priority, while you take a less important or passive role.

take sth in good part The idiom "take something in good part" means to accept or interpret something in a positive or favorable way, often without becoming offended or upset. It implies being able to handle criticism, jokes, or difficult situations with a gracious and understanding attitude.

take the chill off (of) (a place) The idiom "take the chill off (of) (a place)" means to make a place or atmosphere feel slightly warmer or less cold. It is usually used metaphorically to describe actions or measures taken to make a situation more comfortable, friendly, or inviting.

take care of numero uno The idiom "take care of numero uno" means to prioritize oneself and look after one's own interests or well-being above all else. It emphasizes the importance of self-preservation and self-care.

take a/the fall for sb The idiom "take a/the fall for someone" means to accept the blame, punishment, or negative consequences for someone else's mistake, wrongdoing, or actions. It involves being willing to protect or shield someone from facing the consequences they rightfully deserve. It often implies self-sacrifice or loyalty towards the person for whom one is taking the fall.

devil take the hindmost, the The idiom "devil take the hindmost" is often used to express a selfish, individualistic attitude where one is willing to leave others behind in a competitive situation or to prioritize their own interests without regard for others. It suggests a lack of empathy or willingness to help others in need.

take it/things easy The idiom "take it/things easy" means to relax, not rush, and proceed slowly and calmly in a situation, usually to reduce stress or avoid unnecessary pressure. It suggests maintaining a relaxed and laid-back attitude instead of being overly intense or hurried.

take the coward's way out The idiom "take the coward's way out" refers to a person choosing the easiest or most convenient course of action, often avoiding a difficult or uncomfortable situation or responsibility out of fear, hesitation, or lack of courage. It implies that the person is not willing to face the consequences or confront the challenges of a situation.

take (one's) life in (one's) (own) hands The idiom "take (one's) life in (one's) (own) hands" means to take responsibility for one's own fate or actions, often in a risky or daring manner. It conveys the idea of assuming full control and willingly facing the consequences of one's choices or decisions, regardless of how dangerous or uncertain the outcome may be. It implies a sense of courage, independence, and self-reliance.

take offense (at sm or sth) The idiom "take offense (at someone or something)" means to feel angry, insulted, or upset by something someone said or did. It implies that a person perceives a remark, action, or situation as personally insulting or disrespectful, resulting in hurt feelings or a sense of being offended.

take cue from The idiom "take cue from" means to observe someone's actions or behavior and use it as a guide or inspiration for one's own actions or behavior.

take someone down a peg or two To "take someone down a peg or two" means to humiliate or deflate someone's arrogance or self-importance by reminding them of their true or lower position, status, or abilities. It involves giving someone a reality check or reducing their inflated ego.

take up the cudgels for sb/sth "Take up the cudgels for sb/sth" is an idiomatic expression that means to vigorously defend, support or advocate for someone or something. It implies standing up for someone's rights, beliefs or interests, often in a confrontational manner. It denotes actively taking a position and engaging in a battle or argument on behalf of the person or cause being defended.

take the pipe The idiom "take the pipe" typically means to accept defeat or failure, often in a resigned or accepting manner. It is similar to "throw in the towel" or "give up."

not (be able to) take your eyes off somebody/something The idiom "not (be able to) take your eyes off somebody/something" means to be unable to stop looking at or observing someone or something due to their captivating or intriguing presence. It implies being completely engrossed or captivated, unable to divert one's attention.

take up where sb/sth left off The idiom "take up where someone/something left off" means to continue or resume a task or activity from the point where it was previously stopped or interrupted, often by another person or situation. It suggests a seamless continuation without any significant gap or break.

take care of sb/sth The idiom "take care of sb/sth" means to look after or attend to someone or something, often with the intention of ensuring their well-being, safety, or proper functioning. It involves assuming responsibility and providing necessary support or assistance.

pick/take up the slack The idiom "pick/take up the slack" refers to the act of assuming the duties or responsibilities that others have neglected or failed to fulfill. It involves stepping in or making up for the deficiency in order to ensure things continue smoothly and efficiently.

take one's cue from The idiom "take one's cue from" means to follow or imitate someone's actions, behavior, or attitude. It involves using another person's words, gestures, or cues as a guide or signal for how to behave or respond in a given situation.

take the gloves off The idiom "take the gloves off" means to stop being polite or restrained and to become more aggressive or confrontational in dealing with a situation or a person. It implies a change of approach to be more direct, forceful, or uncompromising in expressing one's opinions or in taking action.

take someone aback The idiom "take someone aback" means to surprise or shock someone, causing them to be momentarily speechless, startled, or disoriented. It refers to a sudden and unexpected event or statement that catches someone off guard, leaving them momentarily at a loss for words or unsure how to react.

take a course (in sth) The idiom "take a course (in sth)" means to enroll in and attend classes or training sessions to learn and acquire knowledge or skills related to a particular subject or discipline. It typically refers to a formal educational or instructional program that provides guidance and structure for learning a specific topic or area of interest.

take sm's blood pressure The idiom "take someone's blood pressure" typically means to assess or evaluate someone's level of stress, anger, or tension. It refers to gauging the emotional state or the intensity of a situation for someone.

take a/the bullet (for someone) The idiom "take a/the bullet (for someone)" means to willingly accept or face danger, harm, or negative consequences on behalf of someone else, usually to protect or save them from harm or trouble. It originates from the act of physically positioning oneself in front of another person to shield them from an incoming bullet or attack. Figuratively, it implies self-sacrifice or taking the blame or punishment in place of someone else.

take the mickey To "take the mickey" is an idiomatic phrase that means to tease, mock, or make fun of someone or something in a light-hearted or playful manner. It can also imply ridiculing someone gently without intending to cause offense.

take your courage in both hands The idiom "take your courage in both hands" means to summon one's bravery, confidence, or determination to face a difficult or challenging situation. It implies that a person should overcome fear and hesitate no longer, but rather seize the opportunity with conviction and boldness.

not take a blind bit of notice The idiom "not take a blind bit of notice" is used to describe someone who completely ignores or pays no attention to something or someone. It suggests a complete lack of interest, concern, or acknowledgement.

take name in vain The idiom "to take someone's name in vain" is usually used in religious context and it originates from the biblical commandment "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain." In a broader sense, the phrase refers to the act of misusing or disrespecting someone's name, especially in a blasphemous or disrespectful manner. It implies using someone's name or reputation carelessly, without showing proper reverence or consideration.

take someone to the cleaners The idiom "take someone to the cleaners" refers to completely defeating or outsmarting someone, typically in a financial sense. It means to profit greatly or take all of someone's money through cunning or unfair means, leaving the person in a disadvantaged situation.

take part (in sth) The idiom "take part (in sth)" means to participate or engage in a particular activity, event, or process. It implies actively getting involved in something and playing a role, whether it is a competition, discussion, performance, or any other form of involvement.

take sb's life The idiom "take someone's life" means to cause the death of someone, usually through violent or deliberate means.

take it like a man The idiom "take it like a man" is a phrase often used to depict someone facing a difficult situation, adversity, or criticism with courage, strength, and resilience, typically associated with traditional masculine traits and stoicism. It implies a person's ability to endure hardships, remain composed, and handle challenges without showing vulnerability or expressing emotions openly. This phrase is based on outdated gender stereotypes and can perpetuate harmful ideals of masculinity by discouraging emotional expression and vulnerability in men.

take down The idiom "take down" generally means to physically bring someone or something to a lower position or to capture or conquer something or someone, often forcefully. It can also refer to dismantling or disassembling an object or system. Additionally, "take down" can be used to describe the act of recording or writing notes about something, such as during a meeting or interview.

take guard The idiom "take guard" stems from the sport of cricket and refers to a player's action of assuming their designated position and stance at the batting crease before facing a bowler. It is a formal process undertaken by a batsman to establish their readiness and protect themselves from being dismissed. The term "take guard" is used metaphorically to imply being prepared, vigilant, and ready to face challenges or opposition in any situation.

get (or take or have) the measure of The idiom "get (or take or have) the measure of" means to assess or determine someone's capabilities, strengths, weaknesses, or true nature. It refers to the act of gaining a thorough understanding or accurate estimation of somebody or something.

take a dump The idiom "take a dump" is a colloquial expression that means to defecate or to go to the bathroom to have a bowel movement. It is an informal and somewhat crude way of describing this bodily function.

take as gospel The idiom "take as gospel" means to believe or accept something as completely true and unquestionable, without any doubt or skepticism. It refers to treating something as if it is an infallible authority or source of absolute truth, much like the Gospel books in the Bible.

take it into head to The phrase "take it into one's head to" means to suddenly decide or develop a strong inclination or desire to do something, often without any logical or apparent reason. It implies an impulsive or unpredictable decision.

take something in your stride The idiom "take something in your stride" means to handle or deal with a difficult or challenging situation calmly and confidently, without being excessively affected or stressed by it.

take pains with sm or sth The idiom "take pains with someone or something" means to put in extra effort, time, or care in order to ensure that someone or something is done well or correctly. It emphasizes the idea of being meticulous or thorough in the task at hand.

take one's lumps The idiom "take one's lumps" means to accept punishment, criticism, or adverse consequences without complaint or resistance. It suggests an individual's willingness to face and endure the unpleasant aftermath of their actions, decisions, or circumstances without resistance or complaining.

take the bait The idiom "take the bait" means to fall into a trap or to be tricked into reacting or engaging in a situation or argument that was deliberately set up to provoke a specific response. It often implies that someone has been lured or enticed into an intended, sometimes negative, action or reaction.

It would take an act of Congress to do something. The idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do something" refers to a situation or task that is exceedingly difficult or unlikely to accomplish due to bureaucratic complexities or extreme effort required. It implies that a high level of authority, such as the legislative branch of the government, would be necessary to achieve the desired outcome.

take to your heels The idiom "take to your heels" means to run away or flee from a situation or place quickly, often due to fear, danger, or some form of threat.

take sm to the cleaners The idiom "take someone to the cleaners" means to cheat, deceive, or exploit someone, especially in financial matters, by basically taking all their money or possessions. It implies that the person who is being "taken to the cleaners" is left with nothing or very little, as if they were cleaned out.

take a deep breath The idiom "take a deep breath" means to pause, relax, and calm down by inhaling deeply. It is often used as advice or encouragement for someone who is feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or anxious.

take pains The idiom "take pains" means to make an effort or work diligently in order to achieve something or accomplish a task. It refers to putting in extra care, time, or attention to ensure a desired outcome.

take under advisement The idiom "take under advisement" typically refers to the act of carefully considering or pondering something before making a decision or taking action. It suggests that the information or opinion being discussed will be taken seriously and given due consideration.

take a rise out of, at get a rise out of The idiom "take a rise out of" or "get a rise out of" refers to intentionally provoking, teasing, or trying to elicit a reaction from someone, typically with the purpose of amusing oneself or others. The expression suggests that the person doing the provoking is attempting to get the other person emotionally worked up or agitated, often in a lighthearted or playful way.

give an inch and they'll take a mile The idiom "give an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you grant someone a small concession or opportunity, they will seize it and try to obtain even more than what was initially given. It suggests that some individuals have a tendency to exploit any advantage they are given, constantly pushing boundaries or asking for more without showing gratitude or respect for the original gesture.

take it from the top The idiom "take it from the top" is a phrase used in the entertainment industry, particularly in performing arts such as music, dance, and theater. It means to start again from the beginning or to start over. It is a directive given by a director, conductor, or choreographer to the performers to restart a performance or rehearsal from the very first note, step, or line.

take root The idiom "take root" means to become established or firmly established, especially with regards to ideas, beliefs, or habits. It refers to something or someone gaining a strong foothold or foundation, typically in a metaphoric or abstract sense.

take hat off to The idiom "take hat off to" is an expression used to indicate a great admiration or respect for someone or their accomplishments. It often implies acknowledging someone's excellence or achievement, similar to the gesture of removing one's hat as a sign of respect.

take a leaf out of sm's book The idiom "take a leaf out of someone's book" means to imitate or learn from someone's behavior, actions, or methods that are considered successful or effective. It suggests emulating the positive qualities or strategies of another person in order to achieve similar outcomes or improve oneself.

take the rough with the smooth The idiom "take the rough with the smooth" means to accept both the difficult or unpleasant aspects of a situation alongside the easier or more enjoyable aspects. It implies being able to handle adversity and challenges with the same grace and composure as one would handle success or favorable circumstances.

take a tumble The idiom "take a tumble" means to fall or to have a sudden, uncontrolled descent, often resulting in a physical injury. It can also be used metaphorically to describe experiencing a setback or failure in any aspect of life.

I take my hat off to The idiom "I take my hat off to" is an expression used to show admiration, respect, or acknowledgment for someone's actions, achievements, or qualities. It implies giving praise and recognizing someone's excellence or abilities.

take up the cudgel The idiom "take up the cudgel" means to vigorously defend or argue in support of a cause or person. It implies actively engaging in a dispute or conflict on behalf of someone or defending an idea. The phrase often suggests taking a passionate or aggressive stance to advocate for a specific viewpoint.

take action on sm or sth The idiom "take action on sm or sth" means to start doing something in response to a situation or problem, often to resolve or address it. It implies that one is actively engaging with the issue and not merely passively observing or ignoring it.

take for an idiot and take for a fool The idiomatic expression "take for an idiot and take for a fool" means to underestimate or deceive someone by assuming they are gullible, easily fooled, or lacking intelligence. It implies treating someone disrespectfully or unfairly by assuming they will believe anything or fall for deceptive tactics.

take a fancy to (someone or something) The idiom "take a fancy to (someone or something)" means to develop a strong liking or attraction for a person or thing. It implies an instant or unexpected attraction without any specific reason or logical basis, often based on personal preferences or individual feelings.

take sm in hand The idiom "take someone in hand" means to assume control or responsibility for someone's behavior or actions in order to guide or discipline them. It often implies taking on a leadership or mentoring role to help that person improve or address a particular issue.

take a backseat The idiom "take a backseat" means to assume a less prominent or active role in a particular situation. It refers to willingly or reluctantly stepping out of the spotlight or leadership position and allowing someone else to take charge or be the focus.

take hands off The idiom "take hands off" means to remove oneself from or disengage from a situation or relationship, often when one's involvement is unwanted or deemed unnecessary. It can also suggest not interfering or refusing to get involved in a particular matter.

take a page from someoneâ€™s book The idiom "take a page from someoneâ€™s book" means to adopt or mimic someone else's actions, behavior, or approach to a situation. It suggests learning from someone's successful or admirable example and applying it to one's own life or circumstances.

take the bit in one's mouth The idiom "take the bit in one's mouth" is derived from horseback riding terminology and refers to a situation where someone becomes willful, disobedient, or takes control independently, without being restrained or controlled. Just as a horse that takes the bit in its mouth disregards the rider's commands and runs free, this idiom implies a lack of submission or compliance to authority or external control.

take a shot in the dark The idiom "take a shot in the dark" means to make a guess or attempt something without having much knowledge, information, or certainty about it. It refers to taking a chance or trying something without any realistic expectation of success, often relying on luck or intuition.

take the chill off The idiom "take the chill off" means to alleviate or reduce the feeling of coldness or discomfort. It refers to making a situation or environment slightly warmer or more comfortable.

take revenge (against sm) The idiom "take revenge (against someone)" refers to the act of seeking retaliation or retribution against a person who has wronged or hurt you in some way. It implies the desire to inflict harm or punishment on the individual as a means of getting satisfaction or justice for the perceived offense.

take a hold on (oneself) The idiom "take a hold on (oneself)" or "get a hold on (oneself)" means to regain or exert control over one's emotions, behavior, or actions. It implies taking steps to calm down, focus, or regain composure in a challenging or overwhelming situation.

take control of someone or something The idiom "take control of someone or something" means to assume command, authority, or dominance over a person, situation, or object. It implies exerting power or influence in order to direct or manage them according to one's own will or objectives.

take advantage of someone The idiom "take advantage of someone" means to exploit or make use of someone's vulnerability, kindness, or resources for personal gain, without regard for their well-being or without reciprocating in a fair or ethical manner.

take a chance The idiom "take a chance" means to willingly accept a risk or opportunity, often in hopes of a positive outcome or a desired result. It implies being open to uncertainty and making a decision without knowing the exact outcome or consequences.

take form The idiom "take form" means to become visible, tangible, or clearly defined, often referring to an idea, concept, or plan that begins to materialize or take shape. It implies that something abstract or intangible is taking on a concrete or recognizable form.

take the edge off something The idiom "take the edge off something" means to make a difficult or intense situation, feeling, or experience less severe, extreme, or intense. It refers to reducing the intensity or sharpness of a challenging or unpleasant situation, making it more manageable or tolerable.

take the ball and run (with it) The idiom "take the ball and run (with it)" means to take advantage of an opportunity or situation and make the most of it, often by taking decisive action or demonstrating initiative. It suggests full engagement, assertiveness, and enthusiasm in pursuing a particular task or goal.

take a dim view of someone or something The idiom "take a dim view of someone or something" means to have a negative or disapproving opinion about someone or something, often implying that one does not have a favorable or optimistic perspective on the situation in consideration. It suggests a lack of approval, support, or enthusiasm towards a person, action, or idea.

take a leaf from (someone) The idiom "take a leaf from (someone)" means to imitate or learn from someone's behavior, practices, or techniques, typically when they are successful or admirable. It suggests adopting a similar approach or approach to achieve similar results.

take up the cudgels (for) The idiom "take up the cudgels (for)" means to vigorously and publicly defend or support a particular person, cause, or idea. It implies taking on the role of a defender or an advocate, often engaging in debates or arguments to protect and promote the interests of someone or something.

blow/take the lid off sth The idiom "blow/take the lid off sth" typically means to reveal or expose something that was previously hidden or secret, especially if it involves exposing wrongdoing or scandalous information. It can also refer to uncovering the truth or bringing a hidden issue to light.

take aim at sm or sth The idiom "take aim at someone or something" means to direct criticism, attacks, or negative actions towards a specific person, thing, or idea. It often implies a deliberate and focused effort to undermine or attack the target.

take effect The idiom "take effect" refers to when something begins to have an impact or produce a desired result. It implies that a certain action, decision, or intervention has started to take effect and produce noticeable consequences or outcomes.

take matters into own hands The idiom "take matters into own hands" means to assume responsibility for solving a problem or dealing with a situation oneself, independently and without relying on others to assist or make decisions. It suggests a proactive approach and a willingness to take action or control when necessary.

take to heart The idiom "take to heart" means to deeply or personally consider and appreciate something, often by feeling deeply affected or emotionally impacted by it. It suggests taking something seriously and treating it with great significance or relevance to oneself.

take the slack up The idiom "take the slack up" means to assume responsibility or take on additional efforts, often to compensate for a lack of effort or productivity by others in order to maintain efficiency or achieve a desired outcome. It refers to the act of tightening or removing any excess slack or looseness in a situation or task by stepping in and fulfilling the necessary functions that others have neglected or failed to perform.

take (sth) off The idiom "take (sth) off" has multiple meanings depending on the context. Here are some common definitions: 1. To remove or discard something: This meaning refers to physically removing or getting rid of an object or item. Example: "She took off her jacket before entering the restaurant." 2. To become successful or popular: In this sense, it implies that something, such as a product, song, or idea, has gained sudden popularity or widespread recognition. Example: "Their new song really took off, and now they're topping the charts." 3. To begin a journey or departure: This meaning suggests starting a trip or leaving a place. Example: "We will take off for our vacation tomorrow morning." 4. To im

take the heat off The idiom "take the heat off" typically refers to a situation where someone or something diverts attention or scrutiny away from another, thereby reducing the pressure, consequences, criticism, or responsibility on that person or situation. It means to reduce or alleviate the intensity of a difficult or tense situation for someone else.

take (the) occasion The idiom "take (the) occasion" typically means to seize or make use of a particular opportunity or situation. It implies being proactive and taking advantage of favorable circumstances to accomplish or achieve something.

take (to) flight The idiom "take (to) flight" means to suddenly run away or escape, especially to avoid danger or a threatening situation. It can also refer to someone's reaction of fleeing or escaping from a difficult or undesirable situation.

take a hint The idiom "take a hint" means to understand or pick up on subtle or indirect cues or suggestions from someone, and to adjust one's behavior or actions accordingly. It suggests that the speaker wants the listener to grasp or perceive something without explicitly stating it.

got to take off The idiomatic expression "got to take off" generally means that someone needs to leave or depart from a place or situation. It suggests that the person has an urgent or necessary reason to go.

take it from here/there The idiom "take it from here/there" means to continue or take over a task, responsibility, or situation from a certain point that has been reached or previously established by someone else. It implies that someone is handing off or transferring the control or authority to another person to continue where they left off.

take a pew! The idiom "take a pew!" is a colloquial way of inviting someone to sit down or take a seat, usually in a friendly or informal manner. It is derived from the use of the word "pew" to refer to a bench or seating typically found in churches.

take up (the) cudgels on behalf of somebody/something The idiom "take up (the) cudgels on behalf of somebody/something" means to vigorously defend or support someone or something, often in a public or confrontational manner. It refers to the historical practice of taking up cudgels (a type of weapon) to fight in someone's defense, symbolizing active advocacy or taking a stance against opposition or injustice.

take action on The idiom "take action on" means to actively and promptly respond or do something about a particular situation or issue. It implies initiating necessary steps or measures in order to address or resolve a problem or accomplish a goal. It often suggests a sense of urgency and determination.

take sm or sth at face value The idiom "take someone or something at face value" means to accept someone or something exactly as they appear or claim to be, without doubting or considering hidden meanings or motives. It implies accepting information or statements at their surface level without questioning or analyzing it further.

pick up/take up the slack The idiom "pick up/take up the slack" generally means to compensate for someone's lack of effort or productivity by making an extra effort or assuming their responsibilities. It refers to filling in the gaps, completing the unfinished work, or providing necessary assistance when someone else is unable to fulfill their duties or perform adequately.

take into account The idiom "take into account" means to consider or include something as a relevant or influential factor when making a decision or forming an opinion. It implies acknowledging the importance or impact of certain information or circumstances.

take it for granted The idiom "take it for granted" means to not appreciate or value something or someone fully because it is always present or has become familiar.

give or take The idiom "give or take" means approximately or roughly. It is typically used when estimating or providing an approximate figure or range, acknowledging that there may be slight variations or deviations.

Could I take a message? The idiom "Could I take a message?" is a polite way of asking if one can write down or relay a message on behalf of someone else. It implies a willingness to assist with delivering the message to the intended recipient.

take sm down a peg (or two) To "take someone down a peg (or two)" means to humble or deflate someone's pride or arrogance, often by critiquing or reminding them of their flaws, mistakes, or limitations. It is a figurative expression that implies bringing someone down to a lower level or position, thereby reminding them of their place or reducing their self-importance.

take care (thatâ€¦/to do something) The idiom "take care (that.../to do something)" can be defined as being cautious or careful in ensuring that something specific is done or avoided. It implies responsibility for ensuring a particular action or outcome.

take cognizance of something The idiom "take cognizance of something" means to acknowledge, recognize, or give attention to something. It refers to taking notice or becoming aware of a specific issue, situation, or fact.

Take the bitter with the sweet. The idiom "Take the bitter with the sweet" means to accept and endure both the negative and positive aspects of a situation or experience. It conveys the idea of embracing both the unpleasant and pleasant moments of life without becoming discouraged or overly affected by challenges or setbacks.

take action against The idiom "take action against" means to initiate or engage in measures or steps to address or combat a particular issue or problem. It suggests actively pursuing remedies or solutions, often in a determined or assertive manner.

take the moral high ground The idiom "take the moral high ground" means to adopt a position or behavior that is morally superior, ethical, or righteous in a particular situation or conflict. It refers to asserting one's moral superiority over others by adhering to principles and displaying ethical behavior. This idiom suggests maintaining a position that is perceived as morally justifiable and respectable, often in contrast to those with opposing views or actions.

take the King's shilling The idiom "take the King's shilling" refers to enlisting or accepting a military or government job or position, often with the implication that one is obligated to follow orders or loyalty to authority. The term originated from a practice in the British military, where soldiers were given a shilling (a unit of currency) as a sign of their enlistment and commitment to serve the King or Queen.

take care of someone The idiom "take care of someone" generally means to assume responsibility for someone's well-being, welfare, or needs. It can refer to providing physical, emotional, or financial support and assistance. Taking care of someone implies watching out for their safety, health, or general interests.

take kindly to sth To "take kindly to something" means to react favorably or accept something with a positive attitude. It suggests being pleased, appreciative, or open to a particular action, idea, or object.

make sb sit up and take notice The idiom "make someone sit up and take notice" means to do or say something that commands a person's attention and makes them pay close attention or take notice of something important. It implies capturing someone's full attention and making them realize the significance or seriousness of a situation or information.

take sm apart The idiom "take someone/something apart" generally means to criticize, analyze, or examine someone or something in a thorough and detailed manner, often with the intention of finding faults or weaknesses. It can refer to dismantling an argument, deconstructing an idea, or even scrutinizing someone's character or performance.

take advantage of The idiom "take advantage of" means to make the most of a situation or to exploit an opportunity for one's own benefit, often resulting in gaining an advantage over others. It can also refer to using someone's vulnerability or weaknesses to exploit them or manipulate them for personal gain.

take my word for it, at take it from me The idiom "take my word for it" or "take it from me" is used when a person wants someone to trust their statement or advice without doubting or questioning it. It implies that the person speaking has personal experience or knowledge of a particular situation and is confident in the accuracy or truthfulness of their statement.

you can take a horse to water, but you can't make him drink The idiom "you can take a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" means that you can offer someone an opportunity or provide them with the necessary resources, but you cannot force them to take advantage of it or accept it. It implies that even though you can present someone with a possibility, it is ultimately up to them to make the decision and take action.

take oath The idiom "take an oath" refers to the act of making a solemn pledge or promise, typically done in a formal or legal setting. It involves making a binding commitment to uphold the truth or fulfill specific obligations.

take (one's) courage in both hands The idiom "take (one's) courage in both hands" means to gather or summon all of one's bravery and determination, often in the face of fear or uncertainty, in order to face a difficult or challenging situation. It implies taking a bold and decisive action despite having doubts or hesitation.

take sm's temperature The idiom "take someone's temperature" means to assess or gauge someone's feelings, opinions, or attitude towards a particular situation or topic. It is often used metaphorically, indicating the need to understand someone's thoughts or emotions on a given matter.

take somebody's life The definition of the idiom "take somebody's life" is to cause someone's death or to kill them.

not take anything for granted The idiom "not take anything for granted" means to not assume or expect something to always be available or to continue to exist without appreciating its value or actively acknowledging its importance. It signifies the importance of being grateful and not becoming complacent about things that are easily taken for granted.

take for granted The definition of the idiom "take for granted" is to assume or expect something (or someone) to always be present, reliable, or available, without appreciation or acknowledgement for its value or significance. It refers to underestimating or not fully recognizing the worth or importance of someone or something due to it being consistently present or readily accessible.

take a page from The idiom "take a page from" means to learn or imitate someone's behavior, actions, or strategies, especially when they have been successful or effective. It suggests adopting or incorporating certain traits, methods, or ideas from another person or group in order to achieve similar outcomes.

take matters into (one's) own hands The idiom "take matters into (one's) own hands" means to assume responsibility for a situation oneself, without relying on others or waiting for someone else to take action. It refers to the act of independently and proactively dealing with an issue or problem instead of being passive or dependent on others.

take the heat off someone The idiom "take the heat off someone" refers to relieving or diverting pressure, blame, or criticism from someone in a difficult or challenging situation. It means to intervene or assume responsibility in order to lessen the negative consequences or attention faced by the person at the center of the issue.

take the liberty of The idiom "take the liberty of" means to do something without asking for permission or acting freely without constraint. It suggests that someone has assumed a privilege or freedom to act on their own accord.

take to bed The idiom "take to bed" means to go to bed or retire for the purpose of rest or recuperation, often due to illness, fatigue, or emotional distress. It refers to the action of withdrawing from daily activities and seeking comfort and relaxation in the comfort of one's bed.

take a shot at The idiom "take a shot at" means to make an attempt or try at something, usually referring to giving it a go or taking a chance in a particular situation. It implies making an effort to achieve or accomplish something, even if success is uncertain.

take a vacation The idiom "take a vacation" means to take time off from work or daily responsibilities to relax, travel, and rejuvenate oneself. It refers to temporarily disconnecting from regular duties, typically for leisure or enjoying a break.

take steps The idiom "take steps" means to consciously and purposefully take action or make progress towards a specific goal or objective. It implies that one is actively working towards achieving something.

take to the hills The idiom "take to the hills" means to flee or escape from a dangerous or threatening situation by seeking refuge in remote or secluded areas, often by going to higher ground or mountainous regions.

take as it comes The idiom "take as it comes" means to accept or deal with whatever happens in a calm and flexible manner, without worrying or trying to control the outcome. It implies a willingness to adapt and respond to changing circumstances without resistance or anxiety.

give someone an inch and they'll take a mile The idiom "give someone an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you allow someone to have a small amount of leeway or freedom, they will inevitably exploit that opportunity and take advantage of it to a much greater extent than originally intended or expected. It highlights the tendency of certain individuals to exceed the boundaries or limits given to them.

take up time The idiom "take up time" means to consume or use a significant amount of time, leading to a delay or lack of time for other activities or tasks. It implies that something is occupying or utilizing an excessive amount of one's available time.

It would take an act of Congress to do The idiom "It would take an act of Congress to do" refers to a task or action that is extremely difficult or complex to accomplish. It implies that the task would require a significant amount of time, effort, and bureaucracy to complete, comparable to passing a law through the U.S. Congress.

(you) can't take it with you (when you go) The idiom "(you) can't take it with you (when you go)" means that when a person dies, they cannot bring their material possessions, accomplishments, or wealth with them. It implies that at the end of life, physical and material things hold no value and cannot be taken or transferred to the afterlife. It is a reminder to focus on experiences, relationships, and leaving a positive impact rather than accumulating wealth or possessions.

take to one's bed The idiom "take to one's bed" refers to a situation when a person becomes so unwell or fatigued that they are compelled to stay in bed for an extended period of time. It indicates a state of severe illness or exhaustion where the individual can no longer carry out their daily activities and needs to rest and recuperate.

take to heels The idiom "take to heels" means to run away hastily or quickly, often out of fear or in an attempt to escape. It implies the act of fleeing or making a speedy exit.

take a collection up (from someone) (for someone or something) The idiom "take a collection up (from someone) (for someone or something)" refers to the act of gathering money or contributions from individuals, often in a group setting, to be given to someone or something for a specific purpose or cause. It typically involves someone collecting voluntary donations or contributions from others on behalf of another person, organization, or event.

take a stand on The idiom "take a stand on" means to adopt a firm position or express a strong opinion about a certain issue or topic. It implies that one is willing to defend their viewpoint and is not afraid to publicly assert it.

take something on board The idiom "take something on board" means to accept, consider, or acknowledge something, usually a suggestion, criticism, or advice. It implies that one is open to incorporating the idea into their thinking or actions.

take coals to Newcastle The idiom "take coals to Newcastle" means to do or offer something that is unnecessary or redundant, often referring to bringing goods to a place where they are already plentiful or readily available. It originates from the city of Newcastle upon Tyne in England, which has long been associated with coal mining and trading.

take someone to law The idiom "take someone to law" refers to the act of initiating legal proceedings against someone, typically in order to settle a dispute or claim through the legal system. It indicates the intention of pursuing legal action against another individual or party.

take a walk down memory lane The idiom "take a walk down memory lane" refers to the act of revisiting past memories or reflecting on the past, usually with a sense of nostalgia. It implies going back in time mentally or emotionally and recalling significant events, people, or experiences from the past.

take an amount of money for The idiom "take an amount of money for" typically means to accept or receive a specified sum of money in exchange for a certain product, service, or favor. It suggests that someone is willing to receive payment for providing or delivering something.

take a turn for the better/worse The idiom "take a turn for the better/worse" means that a situation or condition is becoming better or worse than before. It implies a sudden or unexpected change in circumstances, often referring to an improvement or decline in a situation.

take its/a toll The idiom "take its/a toll" means to have a negative or damaging effect on someone or something over time, often resulting in physical, mental, or emotional exhaustion or decline. It implies that a particular situation or circumstance is causing harm or causing something to deteriorate.

take a hand in The idiom "take a hand in" means to get involved, participate or intervene in a specific situation or activity. It suggests actively contributing or assisting in the development or outcome of something.

take notes The idiom "take notes" means to pay close attention to something and make thoughtful observations or record important information for future reference or to ensure accurate understanding.

take somebody into your confidence The idiom "take somebody into your confidence" means to share sensitive or personal information with someone, indicating a level of trust and secrecy between the parties involved. It implies opening up and confiding in someone, often seeking their advice or support.

take stock (of sth) The idiom "take stock (of sth)" means to carefully assess or evaluate a situation, typically one's own circumstances, resources, or progress, in order to make decisions or plans accordingly. It entails pausing and reflecting on the current state of affairs to gain a comprehensive understanding. It may involve considering various factors, such as strengths, weaknesses, achievements, setbacks, or available options, before making further judgments or actions.

take the words right out of somebodyâ€™s mouth The idiom "take the words right out of somebodyâ€™s mouth" means to say something that another person was just about to say or is thinking, often in a way that surprises or impresses them. It suggests that the speaker's words perfectly match the thoughts or intentions of the other person, as if they were being "taken" directly from their mouth.

take an interest The idiom "take an interest" means to show curiosity, concern, or involvement in something or someone. It implies actively engaging in or paying attention to a particular subject, activity, or person, displaying genuine attention and care.

take care of sth The idiom "take care of something" means to attend to or manage something, often with the intention of ensuring its well-being, maintenance, or completion. It implies assuming responsibility and providing necessary attention, action, or support for the mentioned thing or task.

take sm to court The idiom "take someone to court" means to initiate a formal legal action or lawsuit against someone in order to resolve a dispute or seek legal recourse. It implies bringing a legal claim or accusation against the person and involving the judicial system to reach a resolution.

take sth home The idiom "take something home" typically means to fully understand or comprehend something, especially after a significant effort or consideration. It refers to grasping the essence or details of a concept or idea, so that it can be thoroughly understood and remembered.

take in (one's) stride The idiom "take in (one's) stride" means to deal with or handle something calmly and without getting upset or overly concerned. It refers to the ability to accept and handle problems or difficulties in a composed manner, without feeling overwhelmed.

sit up and take notice The idiom "sit up and take notice" refers to the act of becoming attentive or alert to something, often due to its importance, significance, or unexpectedness. It implies that the person being addressed should pay close attention and be fully engaged.

take a new turn The idiom "take a new turn" means to change direction or course in one's life or plans, often by making a new decision, embarking on a different path, or pursuing alternative options. It implies deviating from the current situation or routine and exploring uncharted territory or a fresh approach.

take belt in The idiom "take belt in" means to reduce or tighten one's expenses or spending, often due to financial constraints or the need for austerity. It can also refer to making adjustments or cuts in a particular area to achieve a desired outcome or goal. The phrase is derived from the literal action of tightening a belt to make it smaller or to fit more snugly.

take a course The idiom "take a course" refers to the act of enrolling in and participating in an educational program or class, typically with a specific subject or field of study. It means to formally acquire knowledge or skills through structured lessons, lectures, or practical exercises offered by an institution or instructor.

take in The idiom "take in" has multiple meanings depending on the context. Here are a few definitions: 1. To understand or comprehend something. Example: "It took him a while to take in the complexity of the situation." 2. To deceive or trick someone. Example: "The fraudulent dealer took me in with his convincing sales pitch." 3. To accommodate or provide shelter to someone. Example: "Can you take in my cousin for a couple of nights?" 4. To attend or visit a place, such as a movie theater or a museum. Example: "Let's take in a show this weekend." 5. To make clothes smaller by altering or adjusting the size. Example: "I need to take in this dress before the event

take the bull by its horns The idiom "take the bull by its horns" means to confront or deal with a difficult or challenging situation directly and assertively, rather than avoiding it or waiting for someone else to take action. It implies taking control and facing the problem head-on with confidence and determination.

can take it or leave it The idiom "can take it or leave it" refers to someone's indifferent attitude towards something, indicating that they are not particularly interested or enthusiastic about it. It implies that they have no strong preference or desire for the subject matter and are content either way, whether they choose to accept or reject it.

take a stand The idiom "take a stand" means to adopt a clear and firm position or opinion on a particular issue or situation, often by openly expressing one's beliefs or principles. It involves standing up for what one believes in, even if it means going against popular opinion or facing opposition.

take (something) to heart The idiom "take (something) to heart" means to be deeply affected or influenced by something, often by taking it very personally or seriously. It suggests that one internalizes a particular comment, criticism, or situation, and allows it to impact their emotions or behavior significantly.

take it/something as read The idiom "take it/something as read" means to accept or assume something as true or certain without requiring any further explanation or evidence. It suggests that the information or statement being presented is widely known, established, or accepted by most people, and there is no need to question or doubt it.

take a fall The idiom "take a fall" typically means to accept blame or punishment for something, whether deserved or not, in order to protect someone else from facing consequences. It can also refer to intentionally losing a competition or deliberately sacrificing oneself for a greater cause.

I take it The idiom "I take it" is used to seek confirmation or clarification on a particular matter or assumption that was just mentioned or implied. It typically implies that the speaker is assuming something to be true or making an educated guess, and they are looking for the listener to confirm or deny their assumption.

take a meeting The idiom "take a meeting" refers to attending or participating in a scheduled discussion or conference, usually with a specific purpose or objective. It implies being present, engaging with others, and contributing to the meeting's topics, decisions, or actions.

take time by the forelock The idiom "take time by the forelock" means to seize or make the most of an opportunity when it arises, to not waste time, or to act promptly. It implies taking control of the present moment and being proactive in order to maximize the outcome. The phrase is derived from the act of grabbing a horse's forelock, which is a tuft of hair above its forehead, as a symbol of gaining control over the situation.

take vows The idiom "take vows" typically refers to the act of making a solemn promise or commitment, especially in a religious or marital context. It commonly pertains to the act of entering into a lifetime commitment, such as becoming a nun or a monk, or getting married and exchanging wedding vows.

take (something) into (one's) own hands The definition of the idiom "take (something) into (one's) own hands" is to assume personal responsibility or control over a situation or problem, often because others have failed to address it adequately. It implies taking decisive action and not relying on others to resolve the matter.

take sth as read To "take something as read" means to assume or accept something as true or factual without needing further proof or evidence. It implies that the information or statement is widely known, accepted, or obvious.

take credit for sth The idiom "take credit for something" means to claim acknowledgment, praise, or recognition for something one has done or achieved, often without acknowledging or being deserving of it.

take sm through (sth) The idiom "take someone through (something)" means to guide, explain, or demonstrate something to someone in a detailed or step-by-step manner. It often involves providing comprehensive instructions or a thorough understanding of a particular topic or process.

it doesn't take a rocket scientist to do sth The idiom "it doesn't take a rocket scientist to do something" is used to express that a certain task or activity is not difficult or complicated and does not require exceptional intelligence or expertise. It implies that the task can be accomplished by anyone without much effort or specialized knowledge.

take (someone) for a fool The idiom "take (someone) for a fool" means to deceive, manipulate, or underestimate someone's intelligence or common sense. It implies that the person being taken for a fool is being fooled, tricked, or made to look foolish by another individual.

take cover The definition of the idiom "take cover" is to seek shelter or protection in order to escape from danger or harm, typically from physical threats such as gunfire, explosions, or adverse weather conditions.

take a poor view of something To take a poor view of something means to have a negative or unfavorable opinion about it. It implies that one does not approve, appreciate, or support that particular thing or action.

take it upon (oneself) to (do something) The idiom "take it upon (oneself) to (do something)" means to assume responsibility for a task or duty without being specifically asked or assigned to do so. It implies that the person chooses to do something out of a sense of duty or personal initiative.

take a blind bit of notice The idiom "take a blind bit of notice" means to pay very little or no attention to something or someone. It implies that the person is ignoring or disregarding whatever is being said or done.

give sm an inch and they'll take a mile The idiom "give someone an inch and they'll take a mile" means that if you provide someone with a small opportunity or leniency, they will exploit it to their advantage and go beyond what was initially agreed upon or intended. It highlights the tendency of some individuals to take advantage of a small concession or opportunity by pushing the boundaries further in their favor, ultimately exceeding reasonable limits.

take a hike! The idiom "take a hike!" is an informal and figurative way of telling someone to go away or leave. It is often used when a person is annoyed, frustrated, or wants someone to leave them alone.

you can't take it with you The idiom "you can't take it with you" means that when a person dies, they cannot bring any of their wealth, possessions, or material belongings with them. It emphasizes the belief that material possessions have no value or importance in the afterlife or beyond death and that one should focus on experiences, relationships, and spiritual fulfillment instead.

take sb apart The idiom "take sb apart" means to criticize, criticize severely or very thoroughly, often in a public manner. It typically implies disassembling or dismantling someone's argument, ideas, work, or performance in a critical manner, highlighting flaws or shortcomings.

take a running jump (in the lake) The idiom "take a running jump (in the lake)" is a figurative expression typically used as a dismissive or emphatic way of telling someone to go away or to leave you alone. It conveys frustration, annoyance, or a desire to distance oneself from the person being addressed.

take word for The idiom "take someone's word for" means to trust or believe someone's statement or assurance without seeking further evidence or proof. It implies relying on someone's honesty and credibility without questioning or doubting their words.

lift the lid on sth, at blow/take the lid off sth To "lift the lid on something" or "blow/take the lid off something" is an idiomatic expression that means to reveal or expose something that was previously hidden, secret, or unknown. It usually refers to uncovering information, a scandal, or a truth that was concealed. It implies revealing the true nature or revealing something that was kept private. It often implies a sense of shock, surprise, or the disruption of a perceived status quo.

take the chequered flag To "take the chequered flag" is an idiom that originated from motorsports, especially Formula 1 racing. It refers to crossing the finish line first to win a race. The term "chequered flag" refers to the flag patterned with alternating black and white squares symbolizing the end of a race. Therefore, "taking the chequered flag" means achieving victory or success in a competition or endeavor.

Take a long walk off a short pier The idiom "Take a long walk off a short pier" is an idiomatic expression often used as a sarcastic or dismissive way of telling someone to go away or leave. It implies that someone should engage in an activity that may lead them to an undesirable or foolish outcome. The phrase is suggesting that the person should walk off a short pier, knowing that they will not have enough space and will likely end up in the water. Overall, it conveys a sense of annoyance, frustration, or a desire for someone to simply go away.

take a shit The idiom "take a shit" is a colloquial expression used to describe the act of defecating or having a bowel movement. It is an informal way to talk about this bodily function.

Can I take your order? The idiom "Can I take your order?" is a common phrase used by waiters or servers in restaurants or cafes to ask customers what food or drink they would like to order. It is a polite inquiry inviting the customer to make their selection from the menu.

take up the slack The idiom "take up the slack" means to fill in or compensate for a deficiency or lack in a particular situation or task. It refers to the act of assuming unused responsibilities or completing unfinished work in order to maintain efficiency and ensure things run smoothly.

take it from me The idiom "take it from me" means to listen and believe what someone is saying because they have personal experience or knowledge about the subject. It is often used to give advice or share insights.

take doing The idiom "take doing" means that something requires effort, time, or perseverance to achieve or accomplish. It implies that the task or action is not easy or quick to complete.

take up a collection The idiom "take up a collection" refers to the act of gathering money or other contributions from a group of people for a specific purpose or cause. It often involves individuals voluntarily donating money or items to help someone in need or support a charitable endeavor.

take on The idiom "take on" has several definitions: 1. To assume or accept a responsibility or task: This refers to willingly or begrudgingly undertaking a duty or challenge. Example: She decided to take on the role of project manager. 2. To hire or employ someone: This refers to giving someone a job or taking them on as an employee. Example: The company plans to take on new staff members next month. 3. To confront or challenge someone or something: This refers to facing or engaging in a confrontation or difficult situation. Example: He was not afraid to take on his critics and defend his ideas. 4. To acquire a specific appearance, behavior, or character: This refers to adopting or embodying a particular attitude, manner

take sm's breath away The idiom "take someone's breath away" means to astonish or amaze someone to the point that they are momentarily speechless or overwhelmed with emotion. It often refers to something or someone of exceptional beauty, power, or awe-inspiring nature that leaves a strong and lasting impression on the individual.

take the liberty to do (something) The idiom "take the liberty to do (something)" means to act freely or without permission in doing something, often something that others may consider bold or presumptuous. It implies that the person is taking a risk or making a decision without first seeking approval or consent.

take sm's pulse The idiom "take someone's pulse" typically means to assess or gauge someone's feelings, thoughts, or opinions about a particular situation or issue. It involves trying to understand their current state or level of interest and gathering information about their viewpoint or attitude.

take it or leave it The definition of the idiom "take it or leave it" is to present someone with a final offer, suggestion, or proposition, implying that they have no opportunity to negotiate or change the terms. The person has the choice to accept the offer as it is or decline it completely.

it doesn't take a rocket scientist The idiom "it doesn't take a rocket scientist" means that something is not difficult or does not require a high level of intelligence or expertise to figure out or understand. It implies that the task or information is relatively simple and can be understood by anyone without special knowledge or skills.

take the pulse of sth The idiom "take the pulse of something" means to gather or assess information about a situation, environment, or group in order to understand its current state, dynamics, or trends. It suggests the act of obtaining a figurative "reading" on the subject to gain insight or make informed decisions based on the collected data. It often involves actively observing, analyzing, and engaging with the subject in order to accurately gauge its condition or progress.

take one's belt in (a notch) The idiom "take one's belt in (a notch)" means to reduce or tighten one's spending or consumption, typically due to financial constraints or a need for budgetary discipline. It often implies cutting back on non-essential expenses or living more frugally.

I take my hat off to sb The idiom "I take my hat off to someone" means to express admiration, respect, or praise for someone's achievements or qualities. It signifies acknowledging someone's excellence or skills with sincere admiration, often comparing the person to a gesture of removing one's hat as a sign of respect.

take out The idiom "take out" typically means to remove or extract something from a particular place or situation. It can also refer to buying food from a restaurant or ordering food to be delivered.

take up where one left off The idiom "take up where one left off" means to resume or continue an activity or relationship at the point it was interrupted or halted. It implies picking up and continuing from where one last stopped, typically without any significant break or delay.

take up the cudgels (on behalf of someone or something) To "take up the cudgels (on behalf of someone or something)" means to defend or support a person, cause, or idea passionately and vigorously. It implies becoming an advocate or champion of that individual or cause and being willing to engage in a fierce or heated debate or argument in their favor.

take a turn for the better The idiom "take a turn for the better" means that a situation or someone's condition has improved or is in the process of improving. It suggests a positive change or progress from a previous state.

take it as read The idiom "take it as read" means to accept something as true or valid without the need for further explanation or evidence. It suggests that the information or statement being discussed should be assumed as being accurate and not questioned.

take something under advisement The definition of the idiom "take something under advisement" is to consider or think about something before making a decision or taking action. It implies that the person or entity receiving the suggestion or proposal will carefully evaluate it before reaching a conclusion or giving a response.

take up the cudgels (for someone or something) The idiom "take up the cudgels (for someone or something)" means to defend, support, or argue in favor of someone or something. It often implies a passionate or vigorous defense, as if wielding a cudgel (a short, thick stick used as a weapon) in defense of the cause or person being supported.

take something as the gospel truth To take something as the gospel truth means to believe something completely and without questioning its accuracy or truthfulness. It refers to accepting information or statements as unquestionable facts, much like one would unquestionably believe religious teachings or scriptures.

take the liberty of (doing something) The idiom "take the liberty of (doing something)" means to do something without asking for permission or without considering the possible consequences or implications. It implies taking an action that may be seen as bold, presumptuous, or even offensive by others.

take heed (of someone or something) The idiom "take heed (of someone or something)" means to pay close attention, be cautious, or to consider someone or something seriously. It implies being careful and taking necessary precautions based on the information, advice, or warning given.

take something/somebody by storm The idiom "take something/somebody by storm" refers to the act of achieving great success or popularity in a short period of time, usually through a combination of enthusiasm, brilliance, and overwhelming force. It implies conquering or overwhelming a situation or person through an impressive and irresistible approach.

take the bit in teeth The idiom "take the bit in teeth" means to take control or take charge of a situation, usually with determination and strong will. It originated from horse riding, where a bit is a metal mouthpiece that controls the horse's movement and direction. When a horse takes the bit in its teeth, it seizes control of the reins and becomes difficult to control. Similarly, when someone takes the bit in their teeth, they assert their authority or take matters into their own hands.

I take/plead the Fifth (Amendment) The idiom "I take/plead the Fifth (Amendment)" refers to a phrase often used in legal contexts, particularly in the United States. It stems from the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects individuals from self-incrimination. When someone says they "take/plead the Fifth," it means they refuse to answer a question or provide any information that could potentially incriminate themselves in a legal proceeding.

take a risk The idiom "take a risk" means to engage in an action that involves potential uncertainty, danger, or a chance of failure, typically in order to achieve a desired outcome or result. It refers to making a daring or bold decision despite the possibility of negative consequences.

take aim (at someone, something, or an animal) The idiom "take aim (at someone, something, or an animal)" means to focus or direct one's attention, efforts, or criticism towards a specific target or objective. It is often used metaphorically, signifying targeting or focusing on a particular person, issue, or goal.

take to the road The idiom "take to the road" means to begin a journey or set off on a trip, usually involving travel by automobile or any form of transportation. It implies the act of leaving one's current location and embarking on an adventure or a planned itinerary.

take a hard line The idiom "take a hard line" refers to adopting a firm or uncompromising stance or position on a particular issue or situation. It implies being strict, resolute, or inflexible in one's approach, often in order to assert one's authority, stand up for one's principles, or achieve a specific objective.

take sth as it comes To "take something as it comes" means to accept and deal with a situation or circumstance as it unfolds, without worrying too much about planning or controlling the outcome. It suggests being flexible, adaptable, and open-minded instead of trying to predict or influence every aspect of a situation.

take across The idiom "take across" typically means to transport someone or something from one side to another, usually referring to a physical movement or transfer. It can also be used figuratively to convey the act of introducing or exposing someone to a different culture, concept, or perspective.

take gloves off The idiom "take gloves off" means to stop being polite, gentle, or cautious and to start behaving in a direct, confrontational, or aggressive manner.

take account of sm or sth The idiom "take account of someone or something" means to consider or acknowledge someone or something when making a decision, judgement, or taking action. It implies giving importance, thinking about the impact, or including the influence of someone or something in an evaluation or plan.

take to court The idiom "take to court" refers to the act of bringing a legal case against someone to seek resolution or judgment from a court of law. It involves initiating legal proceedings against another person or entity to resolve a dispute, settle a disagreement, or seek compensation for damages.

take the helm To "take the helm" means to assume control or leadership of a situation or group. It comes from the nautical term, where the helm refers to the steering mechanism of a ship. Thus, taking the helm implies taking charge and directing the course of action.

can take it to the bank The idiom "can take it to the bank" means that a statement or promise is very reliable, certain, or guaranteed to happen. It implies that one can trust and rely on the information or assurance received.

do a double take The idiom "do a double take" refers to the act of taking a second look or a closer examination of someone or something, often due to surprise, astonishment, or disbelief. It implies a momentary pause or hesitation before processing what was seen.

take the secret to the grave The idiom "take the secret to the grave" means to keep a secret confidential or hidden until one's death, never revealing it to anyone else.

take the rap (for sth) To "take the rap" for something means to accept responsibility or blame for something, often to protect someone else or to prevent them from being punished. It implies accepting the consequences or punishment even if one is not solely responsible for the act.

take the piss (out of) sb or sth The idiom "take the piss (out of) someone or something" is typically used in British English and is informal in nature. It means to make fun of, mock, or ridicule someone or something, often in a light-hearted or bantering manner. It can involve teasing or jokingly undermining a person's or thing's credibility, reputation, or abilities.

take someone at his (or her) word The idiom "take someone at his (or her) word" means to believe or accept someone's statement or promise as true, without any doubt or skepticism. It indicates that one chooses to trust the person completely and assumes that they will honor their words without questioning their reliability.

take the bread out of someone's mouth The idiom "take the bread out of someone's mouth" means to take away someone's means of livelihood or deprive them of their basic needs or sustenance. It implies causing harm or creating difficulties for someone by interfering with their source of income or support.

take a breather The idiom "take a breather" means to temporarily pause or rest from one's activities, usually to relax, rejuvenate, or recharge oneself. It is a metaphorical expression derived from the action of literally taking a break to catch one's breath during physical exertion.

take your hat off to The idiom "take your hat off to" means to show admiration, respect, or acknowledgment for someone's achievements, qualities, or accomplishments. It implies acknowledging someone's success or excellence and paying them a high compliment.

take into consideration The idiom "take into consideration" means to think about or include something as a factor or point to be considered before making a decision or judgment. It implies the act of paying attention to and giving importance or weight to a particular matter or aspect.

be/take centre stage The idiom "be/take centre stage" is used to describe someone or something that becomes the main focus or center of attention in a particular situation or event. It refers to being in a prominent or dominant position, usually drawing the most attention or receiving the most recognition.

take a leaf from The idiom "take a leaf from" means to adopt or learn from someone's behavior, actions, or habits, especially when they are successful or admirable. It suggests emulating or imitating a positive example in order to improve oneself or achieve similar results.

take the initiative (to do sth) The idiom "take the initiative (to do sth)" means to be proactive or to take the first step in a task or action without waiting for others to do it. It implies being assertive and showing leadership by initiating or starting something without being asked or prompted.

kick (sm) ass (and take names) The idiom "kick (someone's) ass (and take names)" is an expression commonly used to convey a strong determination or ability to succeed, often in a competitive or challenging situation. It implies being highly motivated, assertive, and effective in achieving one's goals. The phrase suggests not only defeating opponents or obstacles but also documenting or remembering their names or identities for future reference. Overall, it signifies a confident and assertive approach to overcoming challenges and achieving success.

take one's own life The idiom "take one's own life" refers to the act of committing suicide, intentionally causing one's own death.

take it on the lam The idiom "take it on the lam" means to escape or flee from a situation, typically to avoid being caught or punished for something. It is often used to describe someone evading the authorities or running away from trouble.

(one) can't take (someone) anywhere The idiom "(one) can't take (someone) anywhere" is used to express frustration or disappointment with someone's behavior in public settings. It implies that no matter where the person is taken or how nice the location is, they inevitably behave inappropriately or embarrassingly, making it difficult to enjoy their company or bring them along to social events.

take sm's part The idiom "take someone's part" means to support or defend someone in a conflict or disagreement, especially when others are criticizing or opposing them. It involves showing alignment or solidarity with the person's perspective or actions.

take a shot at sm or sth The idiom "take a shot at someone or something" means to make an attempt or try something, often with the expectation of success. It can refer to taking a chance, making an effort, or giving something a try.

take the initiative (to do something) The idiom "take the initiative (to do something)" means to be proactive or to be the first one to take action or responsibility for a task or a situation, without being prompted or waiting for others to start. It implies being assertive and showing leadership qualities in order to accomplish something.

Take care The idiom "take care" is a phrase often used as a way to bid farewell or say goodbye to someone. It conveys the sentiment of wishing someone well and reminding them to be cautious or to look after themselves.

take sth to pieces The idiom "take something to pieces" means to disassemble or dismantle something into its individual components or parts. It refers to the act of breaking down an object, usually for examination, repair, or understanding its internal workings.

take your chances The idiom "take your chances" means to accept the risks and uncertainties involved in a situation or decision, often without guaranteed success. It implies the willingness to proceed without knowing the outcome or potential consequences.

take the easy way out The idiom "take the easy way out" refers to choosing the path of least resistance or opting for a simpler and less challenging option when faced with a difficult or complex situation. It implies avoiding hard work, effort, or potential obstacles in order to find a quicker and easier solution.

take up arms (against sm or sth) The idiom "take up arms (against someone or something)" means to engage in a fight, conflict, or resistance against a person, group, or cause. It often implies an act of aggression or an organized effort to combat or oppose an enemy or a perceived threat.

take (something) out of context The idiom "take (something) out of context" means to incorrectly interpret or understand a statement, quote, or situation by removing it from its original context. It refers to the act of isolating a particular part of a conversation, text, or event to support a specific viewpoint or misrepresentation, often distorting or diluting its true meaning.

take shape The idiom "take shape" means to become clearer, more organized, or more defined. It refers to the process of something starting to form or develop into a recognizable or coherent entity.

take the weight off your feet The idiom "take the weight off your feet" means to sit down or rest in order to relieve fatigue after standing or walking for a long period of time.

able to take only so much The idiom "able to take only so much" refers to someone's limited capacity or tolerance for a particular situation or behavior. It implies that a person can only endure or handle a certain amount before reaching their breaking point or becoming overwhelmed.

throw down (or take up) the gauntlet The idiom "throw down (or take up) the gauntlet" refers to issuing a challenge or provocation, often in a confrontational or competitive manner. It is derived from the historical practice of throwing down a gauntlet, which was a specific type of armored glove, as a challenge to a duel. Nowadays, it is used metaphorically to describe the act of inviting someone to engage in a fight, argument, competition, or any other form of contest.

take sb/sth on faith The idiom "take somebody/something on faith" means to believe or accept someone or something without having any concrete evidence or proof. It implies having trust or confidence in someone or something despite a lack of supporting information.

take on faith The idiom "take on faith" means to believe something without questioning or seeking evidence or proof. It implies trusting in something or someone without any concrete evidence or logical reasoning.

take one's cue from someone To "take one's cue from someone" means to observe and imitate someone's actions or behavior, especially when one is unsure how to proceed or what to do next. It involves using another person's actions or words as a signal or guide for one's own actions or decision-making process.

not take kindly to (something) The idiom "not take kindly to (something)" means to react or respond negatively or with disapproval towards a particular thing, action, or statement. It implies that someone is not pleased or accepting of a certain situation or behavior.

take the liberty The idiom "take the liberty" means to act without asking for permission or formalities, especially when it may be seen as audacious or presumptuous. It implies that someone is exercising freedom or authority without considering any potential consequences or objections.

take advantage of someone or something The idiom "take advantage of someone or something" means to exploit or manipulate someone or something in a way that benefits oneself, often unfairly or at the expense of the other party. It involves using a situation or a person for personal gain without considering the rights, feelings, or interests of others involved.

take the lid off (of) sth The idiom "take the lid off (of) sth" means to expose or reveal something that was previously hidden or secret. It is often used metaphorically to describe uncovering information, exposing wrongdoing, or bringing a hidden truth to light.

take (someone) for an idiot The idiom "take (someone) for an idiot" means to believe or treat someone as unintelligent, gullible, or naive. It suggests the idea of underestimating someone's intelligence or capabilities.

take a beating The idiom "take a beating" means to experience severe physical or emotional abuse, hardship, defeat, or criticism. It refers to enduring and suffering through difficult circumstances or situations, often resulting in negative consequences or a loss.

take to your bed The idiom "take to your bed" means to stay in bed due to illness, fatigue, or emotional distress. It refers to the act of withdrawing from daily activities and responsibilities and spending an extended period of time resting or recovering.

take place The idiom "take place" means to occur or happen, usually in reference to an event or activity taking place at a specific time and location. It implies the actual execution or realization of something that has been planned or scheduled.

take someone's measure The idiom "take someone's measure" can be defined as assessing or evaluating someone's abilities, qualities, character, or potential in order to form an opinion or judgment about them. It involves observing, studying, or determining someone's worth, competence, or trustworthiness, often through observation or interaction.

take a swing at sm The idiom "take a swing at someone" means to physically attempt to hit or strike someone, usually out of anger or frustration. It is often used figuratively to describe a verbal or written attack on someone or an attempt to undermine or criticize them.

I, you, etc. can't take somebody anywhere The idiom "I, you, etc. can't take somebody anywhere" is used to express frustration or disappointment with someone's behavior, suggesting that regardless of the efforts made to educate or improve them, they consistently exhibit inappropriate or embarrassing behavior. It implies that no matter where the person is taken or what environment they are placed in, they will still act in an undesirable manner.

take the pledge The idiom "take the pledge" refers to voluntarily committing oneself to a particular cause, belief, or course of action, often by making a formal promise or commitment. It is commonly used to indicate someone's commitment to adhere to specific principles or abstain from certain behaviors.

take issue with someone The idiom "take issue with someone" means to disagree with or challenge someone's opinion, statement, behavior, or actions. It suggests a willingness to voice disagreement and engage in a debate or argument to express a different perspective or point of view.

take into one's confidence The idiom "take into one's confidence" means to share personal or private information or thoughts with someone, usually indicating a level of trust and intimacy. It implies revealing something in confidence or entrusting someone with sensitive information.

take the wind out of sm's sails The idiom "take the wind out of someone's sails" means to diminish someone's enthusiasm, confidence, or momentum by saying or doing something that deflates their excitement or optimism. It often refers to undermining or depleting the energy or motivation of another person.

take (someone or something) off (one's) hands The idiom "take (someone or something) off (one's) hands" means to relieve oneself of responsibility or burden by transferring or giving away someone or something to another person. It implies that the person is willingly giving up the responsibility or burden to make it someone else's concern.

(Go) take a running jump! The idiom "(Go) take a running jump!" is generally used as a rude and dismissive way to tell someone to go away or to indicate that you have no interest in what they are saying or suggesting. It is an expression of annoyance or frustration towards the person, often implying that you do not care about their presence or opinion.

take into own hands The idiom "take into own hands" means to assume personal responsibility or control over a situation instead of relying on others to handle it. It implies an individual's proactive approach to resolving an issue or taking charge of their own circumstances.

take one's hat off to The idiom "take one's hat off to" means to show admiration, respect, or praise for someone or something. It refers to the act of removing one's hat in recognition and is often used to acknowledge someone's achievements, abilities, or actions.

take a leaf out of somebody's book The idiom "take a leaf out of somebody's book" means to imitate or emulate someone's behavior or actions, often with the intention of achieving similar success or positive results. It suggests learning from and following the example set by someone else.

take the (long) count The idiom "take the (long) count" refers to accepting defeat or surrendering in a competition, particularly in boxing. It originated from the sport of boxing where a boxer fails to rise within the specified count of ten, indicating a knockout and the end of the match. It can be used metaphorically to describe giving up or admitting defeat in any kind of contest or challenge.

take the bench The idiom "take the bench" generally refers to assuming the role or duties of a judge. It can signify someone presiding over a court, making legal decisions, hearing cases, and maintaining order within the courtroom. Often used in legal contexts, this expression implies that a person is stepping into a position of authority within the judicial system.

take sth with a grain of salt The idiom "take something with a grain of salt" means to not completely believe or trust something that is said or heard, as it may not be entirely accurate or reliable.

let nature take its course The idiom "let nature take its course" means to allow events or processes to unfold on their own, without interference or intervention. It suggests that it is best to allow things to happen naturally or according to their inherent qualities, rather than trying to control or influence them.

take sth personally The idiom "take sth personally" means to interpret or perceive a situation, comment, or action as a direct insult or offense to oneself, rather than considering it objectively or understanding that it was not intended to be personal. It implies becoming overly sensitive or defensive, feeling hurt, offended, or taking it as a personal attack on one's character or abilities.

take a load off oneâ€™s feet The idiom "take a load off oneâ€™s feet" means to sit down and rest, especially when one has been standing or walking for a long period of time. It is often used to suggest taking a break from physical activity and relieving the exhaustion or discomfort in the feet.

take aim at someone or something The idiom "take aim at someone or something" means to direct criticism, accusations, or attacks towards a specific person or thing. It typically carries the implication of intending to harm or undermine the target in some way.

take a firm grip on The idiom "take a firm grip on" means to grasp something tightly and securely, either physically or metaphorically. It suggests taking control or ensuring a strong hold on a particular situation, concept, or task.

take on a life of its own The idiom "take on a life of its own" means that something, such as a situation, idea, or project, begins to develop or grow in a way that is unexpected or uncontrollable. It implies that it has gained its own momentum or importance, independent of the original intentions or efforts of those involved.

take a fancy to The idiom "take a fancy to" means to develop a strong liking or attraction towards something or someone spontaneously. It implies that one is instantly captivated or interested in something without any particular reason or prior knowledge.

take a joke The idiom "take a joke" means to be able to accept or tolerate humor, teasing, or sarcasm without getting offended or upset. It refers to someone's ability to have a sense of humor and not take things too seriously.

take a load off mind The idiom "take a load off your mind" means to relieve oneself from worries, stress, or mental burden. It implies finding relief or relaxation by letting go of troublesome thoughts or concerns.

sign/take the pledge The idiom "sign/take the pledge" typically means making a formal commitment or promise to adhere to a particular set of principles, values, or rules. It often involves signing an official document or publicly agreeing to uphold a specific cause, belief, or action.

take care of the pence, and the pounds will take care of themselves The idiom "take care of the pence, and the pounds will take care of themselves" means that by managing small amounts of money or small issues diligently and responsibly, larger financial matters or overall well-being will be naturally taken care of without much effort. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention to the small and seemingly insignificant details, as they can contribute significantly to the overarching success or stability of a situation.

take turns with The idiom "take turns with" refers to a situation where two or more individuals alternate or share a certain responsibility, task, or opportunity in a fair and organized manner. Each person takes their turn in sequence or on a rotational basis.

take attendance The idiom "take attendance" refers to the act of checking and documenting the presence or absence of individuals in a group or a gathering. It commonly implies the process of making a formal record of who is present and who is not, often done by calling out names or having participants sign their names on a list.

it doesn't take a rocket scientist, at it's not rocket science

take before

take blood pressure

take the spear (in one's chest)

Could I take your order?

take through

take the cloth

take into head

take head off

take at word

take pick

take a look for

take fuel on

take off hands

take life

Every man for himself (and the devil take the hindmost),

take fire

take no for an answer, not

take the spear (in oneâ€™s chest)

carry/take something too far To carry or take something too far means to exaggerate or go beyond what is appropriate or necessary in a situation, often resulting in negative consequences.

take/draw somebody to one side To take or draw somebody to one side means to speak to someone privately or confidentially, away from others.

take the rag off the bush The idiom "take the rag off the bush" means to surpass or outdo someone in a particular task or skill. It can also be used to describe someone who goes above and beyond in their efforts or accomplishments.

get/take/have the measure of somebody To understand someone's character, abilities, or qualities, typically through observation or experience.

(take to something) like a duck to water When someone takes to something like a duck to water, it means that they quickly and easily become very good at it, showing a natural talent or affinity for the activity.

take the chair To "take the chair" means to assume control or leadership of a meeting, group, or organization, often by presiding over a meeting or taking charge of a situation. It can also refer to taking a position of authority or responsibility in a group or organization.

bear, take, etc. the brunt of something To bear, take, etc. the brunt of something means to receive the main force or impact of a difficult or unpleasant situation, often without complaint. It can also refer to enduring the worst part of something.

get, win, take, etc. the wooden spoon The idiom "get, win, take, etc. the wooden spoon" refers to finishing last or in the lowest position in a competition, race, or contest. It is often used to indicate someone who has performed poorly or been unsuccessful in their efforts.

take the cash and let the credit go The idiom "take the cash and let the credit go" means to prioritize immediate financial gain or reward over receiving recognition or praise for one's actions or efforts.

you can lead/take a horse to water, but you canâ€™t make it drink This idiom means that you can present someone with an opportunity or offer them help, but you cannot force them to take advantage of it or accept it if they are not willing.

(choose, follow, take, etc.) the line of least resistance To (choose, follow, take, etc.) the line of least resistance means to choose the easiest or most convenient course of action, avoiding any challenges or difficulties. It suggests taking the path that requires the least effort or confrontation in order to achieve a desired outcome.

double take, do a To do a double take means to look at something or someone a second time in surprise or disbelief, often due to something unexpected or shocking.

take/blow the lid off something To take or blow the lid off something means to reveal or expose a hidden or secret truth, scandal, or information that was previously unknown or kept confidential.

bring/take somebody down a peg To bring/take somebody down a peg means to humble or deflate someone's ego or pride by showing them that they are not as important or skilled as they think they are.

take the body The idiom "take the body" typically refers to being held responsible for handling a difficult or unpleasant situation or task. It may also be used to describe facing the consequences of one's actions or decisions.

go down/take somebody down memory lane To go down/take somebody down memory lane means to revisit or reminisce about past events, usually in a nostalgic or sentimental way.

take eggs for money "Take eggs for money" is an idiom that means to accept a small amount of compensation or reward in exchange for a task or service that requires a much greater effort or skill. It implies settling for less than what is deserved.

catch/take somebodyâ€™s fancy To catch or take somebody's fancy means to appeal to someone or to attract their interest or desire.

take/plead the fifth The idiom "take/plead the fifth" refers to invoking the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects individuals from self-incrimination. It means refusing to answer questions or provide information in order to avoid saying something that could be used against oneself in a legal proceeding.

have/take a butcherâ€™s "Have/take a butcher's" is a British slang term that means to take a look or inspect something closely, particularly with the intention of understanding or assessing it. It is derived from the Cockney rhyming slang "butcher's hook," which rhymes with "look."

get (or take) a rise out of To get a rise out of someone means to provoke a reaction, usually an emotional one, from them. It typically involves saying or doing something that is meant to annoy, anger, or amuse the other person.

take it up the ass To endure a difficult or unpleasant situation without complaining or resisting.

catch/take somebody unawares To catch or take somebody unawares means to surprise or ambush someone unexpectedly; to do something without warning or preparation.

follow/steer/take a middle course To follow/steer/take a middle course means to choose a moderate or compromising stance or action between two extremes, avoiding both extremes in order to find a balanced or reasonable approach.

get/take the bit between your teeth To take control or responsibility of a situation and act independently or assertively, without waiting for direction or permission from others.

have/take a hand in something/in doing something To have or take a hand in something means to be involved or participate in something, typically to contribute to its success or completion.

have (or take) a leak To urinate.

carry/take something too, etc. far To carry or take something too far means to do or say something to an excessive or extreme degree, beyond what is necessary, appropriate, or acceptable.

get/have/take somebodyâ€™s measure To get, have, or take somebody's measure means to assess or form an opinion about someone's character, abilities, intentions, or qualities.

take a ride to Tyburn The idiom "take a ride to Tyburn" refers to being executed, as Tyburn was a place in London where public executions were carried out in the past. Therefore, the phrase implies facing a severe punishment or consequence for one's actions.

you can take/lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink This idiom means that you can provide someone with the opportunity or tools they need to succeed, but ultimately it is up to them to take advantage of it. Just as you can lead a horse to water, but you cannot force it to drink, you can guide someone, but you cannot control their actions or decisions.

be/take all day, morning, etc. The idiom "be/take all day, morning, etc." means to take a very long time to complete a task or activity.

get/take a grip/hold on yourself To control your emotions or behavior and regain composure; to regain control in a difficult situation.

get, take, etc. a free ride To get, take, etc. a free ride means to receive a benefit or advantage without having to put in any effort or pay any cost. It often implies taking advantage of a situation or someone else's generosity without reciprocating.

(steer, take, etc.) a middle course To (steer, take, etc.) a middle course means to follow a moderate or balanced path between two extremes or opposite views. It refers to finding a compromise or avoiding extreme positions in order to achieve a sensible and pragmatic outcome.

take two and hit to right This idiom is a baseball saying that means to aim for a hit to the opposite side of the field than the batter's usual hitting direction. It suggests a change in approach in order to be more successful.

carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle The idiom "carry, take, etc. coals to Newcastle" means to do something completely unnecessary or pointless, especially when it is redundant or contrary to common sense. It originates from the historical practice of sending coal to Newcastle, a city in England known for its coal production, which would be unnecessary as the city already had an abundance of coal.

take (one's) life To take one's life means to commit suicide.

get/find/take your bearings To get/find/take your bearings means to determine one's position in relation to one's surroundings, to understand where one is and how to proceed in a particular situation. It can also refer to gaining a sense of direction or orientation.

pick up/take the ball and run with it To take on a task or responsibility and continue to develop it or make progress independently and enthusiastically.

take-off artist A take-off artist is someone who is skilled at mimicking, impersonating, or emulating another person, especially for comedic purposes. This term is often used in the context of comedy or performing arts.

catch/take/tickle somebody's fancy To catch/take/tickle somebody's fancy means to appeal to someone's interest or taste, to be of particular interest or appeal to someone.

catch/get/grab/take hold of somebody/something To catch/get/grab/take hold of somebody/something means to physically grasp or hold onto someone or something firmly. It can also be used figuratively to mean gaining control or influence over someone or something.

get/take it into your head that... The idiom "get/take it into your head that..." means to suddenly believe or decide something without any logical reason or evidence. It often implies a stubborn or irrational belief or decision.

take, claim, seize, etc. the moral high ground To take, claim, or seize the moral high ground means to assert one's position or stance as morally superior to others in a given situation. It involves claiming the rightness or righteousness of one's actions or beliefs in comparison to those of others.

get/take stick from somebody To receive criticism or blame from someone.

take (one's) cherry To take someone's cherry is a slang expression that refers to deflowering or having sexual intercourse with a virgin.

take below To take below means to reprimand or criticize someone in a harsh manner or to humble or put someone in their place.

take the bear by the tooth The idiom "take the bear by the tooth" means to confront a difficult or dangerous situation head-on, rather than avoiding or ignoring it. It implies facing a problem directly and decisively.

run/take its course To allow events to happen or develop naturally, without trying to control or influence them.

How Do You Spell TAKE?

TAKE Meaning and Definition

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Other Common Misspellings for TAKE

Etymology of TAKE

Idioms with the word TAKE

Similar spelling words for TAKE

Plural form of TAKE is TAKES

Conjugate verb Take

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