Definition of Take (meaning 1 of 4 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Take
To grab, hold, or pick something up with your hands.
Detailed Definition of Take
To reach out and grasp something with your hand; to hold or seize something.
How to Pronounce Take
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with the /eɪ/ diphthong (like the letter 'A'), followed by /k/ sound. Stress on the vowel.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced /tæk/ with short 'a' sound instead of long /eɪ/.
Other Meanings of Take
“Take” has 4 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 3:
#2 Take as a verb
To carry, bring, or transport someone or something from one location to another.
take someone home
#3 Take as a verb
To receive something that someone gives to you or that you choose to accept.
take an offer
#4 Take as a verb
When something needs a certain amount of time to happen or be finished.
take time
Origin and Etymology of Take
From Old Norse 'taka' meaning to grasp or seize; common in Scandinavian languages.
How to Use Take in a Sentence
Each example shows “take” in the meaning “To grab, hold, or pick something up with…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Can you take my hand so we can cross the street safely?”
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“I take the pen and start writing notes.”
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“The child began to take the toy from the shelf carefully.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Take
Common Synonyms for Take
Smart Synonyms for Take — When to Use Each
- grasp
- for holding something firmly with purpose
- grab
- for quick or urgent seizing of something
- seize
- for forceful taking, often of control or opportunity
Antonyms of Take
Common Collocations with Take
These phrases pair with “take” in everyday English:
- take a seat
- take my hand
- take hold of
- take a breath
- take the reins
Common Mistakes When Using Take
Even fluent speakers slip up with “take”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She take the book from the shelf carefully.
- ✓ Correct: She takes the book from the shelf carefully.
- Why: Third person singular 'she' requires verb form 'takes', not base form 'take'.
- ✗ Wrong: I taked the umbrella and brought it home.
- ✓ Correct: I took the umbrella and brought it home.
- Why: Past tense of 'take' is 'took', not 'taked'. Bring becomes 'brought' in past tense.
Words Confused With Take
- Take vs Bring: Take means to carry something away from the speaker; bring means to carry something toward the speaker. Compare →
Other Forms of Take
Frequently Asked Questions About Take
What is the meaning of "Take"?
To grab, hold, or pick something up with your hands.
How do you pronounce "Take"?
The IPA is /teɪkɪŋ/. One syllable with the /eɪ/ diphthong (like the letter 'A'), followed by /k/ sound. Stress on the vowel.
What part of speech is "Take"?
"Take" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Take"?
Common synonyms include grasp, grab, hold.
How do you use "Take" in a sentence?
For example: "Can you take my hand so we can cross the street safely?"