Verbs - Expressions with 'Take'

'Take' forms many multi-word expressions used frequently in business English. These expressions combine 'take' with nouns, prepositions, or particles to create meanings that are not always obvious from the verb alone.

• They are often fixed phrases (take notes, take charge of, take advantage of).
• Many are common in meetings, emails, and project management.
• Learn the pattern (take + noun / take + preposition + noun / take + particle) and the usual preposition that follows.

Recognize common grammatical patterns to use 'take' expressions correctly:

• take + noun: take notes, take responsibility
• take + preposition + noun: take into account, take advantage of
• take + particle (phrasal verbs): take on, take over, take place
• Many are followed by 'of' or 'on' — learn the specific preposition for each expression.

Memorize the full expression, not just 'take'.

Avoid these universal errors when using 'take' expressions:

• Mixing prepositions (e.g., saying 'take advantage' without 'of').
• Using the wrong object order or adding unnecessary articles (e.g., 'take the charge' instead of 'take charge').
• Forgetting that some expressions are inseparable (e.g., 'take into account' must stay together).
• Using incorrect tense or form (e.g., 'takeed' instead of 'took' for past).

Learn each expression as a whole unit and practice common contexts.