taken - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
taken Word Meanings
- to grasp or capture something
- to receive or accept something
- to conduct or lead an action
taken Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
taken Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/teɪk/
US
/teɪk/
taken Word Etymology
take = 'to grab' (Old English tacan); from Proto-Germanic *takan (to seize). Imagine a child reaching out to take a cookie, excitedly grabbing for it with both hands.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I stretch out my hand and my fingers move to grab the mug. I tighten my grip, then pull it toward me as the weight shifts in my palm. I hold it steady, adjust my fingers, and let the moment show I am taking control. I set the mug down with care and keep walking, feeling that a small take can steer the day.
Real Context
Take is one of English's most versatile verbs, with several core meanings that shift with context. It can mean to grasp or seize something physically, as in taking a cookie from a plate. It can also mean to receive or accept something, as in taking an offer or a gift. Finally, take can describe conducting or leading an action, as in taking a trip, taking charge, or taking a course of study. Each sense often collocates with specific objects (a hold, a medicine, a risk) and with common phrasal forms like take off, take over, or take part. Learners frequently mix up related verbs like grab, get, or bring, or misunderstand the object of take in passive contexts.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Take means to grasp, receive, or perform; choose the sense from context.
- 2. Distinguish take from grab (grab is quicker; take is broader).
- 3. Use take with time: take time, take a long time.
- 4. Learn key collocations: take a look, take notes, take a break, take part, take over, take off.
- 5. Be careful with passive constructions: be taken by surprise, taken aback.
- 6. Remember offer/accept: take an offer, take a gift.
Common Misconceptions
- Take is only about grabbing something; it also means accepting or undertaking something.
- Mixing up take with bring: take moves away from the speaker, bring toward the speaker.
- Using take with non-collocations like take the bus (unidiomatic in some contexts) instead of take a bus.
- Confusing take a photo with make a photo; English uses take a photo.
- For passive voice, misplacing the object after take (take by surprise) instead of taken by surprise.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, take covers a wide range of senses from physical grabbing to accepting, to leading actions. Learners often pick a more specific verb (grab, get) for all senses, or mix up when to use take with time or with offers.
Learning Tips
- Learn core senses: grab vs take, accept, and lead/perform.
- Master key collocations: take a look, take notes, take a break, take part, take over, take off.
- Practice time-related uses: take time, take a long time.
- Study phrasal verbs: take over, take off, take part.
- Differentiate passive usage: be taken by surprise, taken aback.
- Use offers/receipts: take an offer, take a gift.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'taken'?
A.To build something
B.To agree with someone
C.To capture or seize
D.To look at something
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'taken' appropriately.
A.The picture was taken during our trip.
B.She taken the wrong bus.
C.They were taken at the store yesterday.
D.The cake is taken out of the oven.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'taken'?
A.forgotten
B.received
C.lost
D.given
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'taken'?
A.given
B.returned
C.neglected
D.lost
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might feel that something has been 'taken' from them?
A.She completed the assignment on time.
B.He arranged a meeting for next week.
C.A child feels a toy was unfairly given to someone else.
D.A traveler shared their experience at the museum.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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