Differences between take for and take up
Take for usually means to believe or assume something to be true, while take up generally means to start a new hobby, activity, or task.
Meanings and Definitions: take for vs take up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Take for
- 1To consider or believe someone or something to be a certain way, often mistakenly or unfairly.
Do you take me for a complete idiot?
- 2Mistake someone or something for someone or something else.
She looks so young I took her for your sister.
Take up
- 1Fill or occupy time or space.
An awful lot of my time at work is TAKEN UP with pointless bureaucracy nowadays.
- 2Make clothes shorter.
The trousers were too long so I TOOK them UP to make them fit.
- 3Start a new hobby, pastime, etc..
He TOOK UP squash as he felt he had to lose some weight.
Usage Examples: take for, take up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
take for
Example
Do you take me for a complete idiot?
Example
He takes her for granted.
take up
Example
She decided to take up painting as a way to relax.
Example
He takes up a new hobby every year to challenge himself.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take for
To believe or accept something to be true without proof or evidence.
Example
I assumed he was coming to the party since he said he would.
To suppose or believe something to be true based on probability or likelihood.
Example
I presume the meeting will be postponed due to the weather forecast.
To have faith or confidence in something or someone.
Example
I believe she will do well in her new job since she has relevant experience.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up
pick up
To learn or acquire a new skill or knowledge.
Example
He wanted to pick up Spanish before his trip to Mexico, so he enrolled in a language course.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “for”
Differences in take for vs take up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: take for or take up?
In daily conversation, people use take up more often than take for. This is because take up is used for more common activities such as starting a new sport or learning a new skill. Take for is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about assumptions or beliefs. So, while both phrases are used, take up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take for and take up
Take for and take up 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 for and take up
The tone of take for and take up can differ based on context. Take for often carries a confident or assertive tone when related to beliefs or assumptions, while take up typically has an enthusiastic and motivated tone, especially when referring to starting a new activity or hobby.
