Differences between take away and take back
Take away means to remove something from a place or person, while take back means to return something to its original place or owner.
Meanings and Definitions: take away vs take back
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Take away
- 1Remove.
The police TOOK the protestors AWAY.
Take back
- 1Make someone nostalgic.
That song always TAKES me BACK to when I was at university.
- 2Retract a statement, admit that something was wrong.
said about them when I learned how I had to TAKE BACK everything bad I'd they'd helped out.
Usage Examples: take away, take back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
take away
Example
Please take away the dirty dishes from the table.
Example
She takes away the toys after the children finish playing.
take back
Example
I take back what I said about you earlier.
Example
She takes back her words when she realizes she was wrong.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take away
To take something away from a place or person.
Example
He asked the waiter to remove the empty plates from the table.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take back
To give something back to its original owner or place.
Example
I need to return this book to the library before it's overdue.
To bring something back to its original state or condition.
Example
The company promised to restore the damaged property to its former glory.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Differences in take away vs take back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: take away or take back?
In daily conversation, people use take away more often than take back. This is because take away is used for more daily tasks and routines such as taking food to go or removing an object from a room. Take back is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about returning something to its original place or owner. So, while both phrases are used, take away is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take away and take back
Take away and take back are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of take away and take back
The tone of take away and take back can differ based on context. Take away often has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to removing objects or ordering food. On the other hand, take back can have a more serious tone, especially when referring to returning something that was borrowed or taken without permission.
