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Phrasal verbs "take down" vs "take over"

Differences between take down and take over

Take down means to write something down or to remove something from a higher position, while take over means to assume control or responsibility for something.

Meanings and Definitions: take down vs take over

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Take down

  • 1Make notes or write down in full.

    The police TOOK DOWN his answers to their questions.

  • 2Remove.

    People TAKE DOWN their Christmas decorations twelve days after Christmas.

Take over

  • 1Assume control of a company or organisation.

    The bank was TAKEN OVER by a Hong Kong bank that needed to buy a bank to get into the British market.

  • 2Start a job or position that someone had occupied before you.

    She TOOK OVER responsibility for the project last month.

Usage Examples: take down, take over in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

take down

Example

Please take down the old calendar from the wall.

Example

She takes down the laundry from the clothesline.

take over

Example

The new CEO will take over the company next month.

Example

She takes over the project management role from her predecessor.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take down

jot down

To quickly write something down, usually in a casual or informal setting.

Example

She asked me to jot down her phone number so I wouldn't forget it.

note down

To make a written record of something, usually in a more formal or official setting.

Example

The secretary was instructed to note down the minutes of the meeting and distribute them to all attendees.

put down

To write something down, usually in a more deliberate or permanent way.

Example

He decided to put down his thoughts and ideas in a journal to reflect on them later.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take over

assume control

To take charge or become responsible for a situation or organization.

Example

After the CEO resigned, the COO had to assume control of the company and make some tough decisions.

take charge

To become the leader or decision-maker in a group or situation.

Example

She decided to take charge of the project and delegate tasks to team members.

take command

To become the person in charge of a military unit or operation.

Example

The general had to take command of the troops and lead them into battle.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Phrasal Verbs with “over”

Differences in take down vs take over: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: take down or take over?

In daily conversation, people use take over more often than take down. This is because take over is used in various contexts such as business, politics, and sports. Take down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about writing something down. So, while both phrases are used, take over is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take down and take over

Take down and take over 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 down and take over

The tone of take down and take over can differ based on context. Take down often carries a practical or neutral tone when related to writing or removing something, while take over typically has a more assertive or ambitious tone, especially when referring to assuming control or leadership.

take down & take over: Synonyms and Antonyms

Take down

Synonyms

Antonyms

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