Phrasal verbs "take it" vs "take up"

Differences between take it and take up

Take it usually means to accept or tolerate a situation or an action, whereas take up generally means to start a new hobby, activity, or job.

Meanings and Definitions: take it vs take up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Take it

  • 1Accept criticism.

    He's good at criticising others, but can't TAKE IT himself.

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 it, take up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

take it

Example

He's good at criticizing others, but can't take it himself.

Example

She always takes it well when her boss gives her feedback.

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 it

put up with

To tolerate or endure something unpleasant or annoying.

Example

She had to put up with her noisy neighbors for months before they finally moved out.

grin and bear it

To endure or tolerate a difficult or unpleasant situation with patience and fortitude.

Example

Even though the hike was challenging, she decided to grin and bear it to reach the stunning view at the top.

swallow one's pride

To accept or tolerate a situation that is humiliating or embarrassing.

Example

He had to swallow his pride and apologize to his boss after making a mistake at work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up

To begin a new activity or hobby.

Example

She decided to start doing yoga to improve her flexibility and reduce stress.

pick up

To learn or acquire a new skill or knowledge.

Example

He wanted to pick up a new language, so he started taking online classes.

To start or undertake a new project or journey.

Example

After finishing college, she decided to embark on a backpacking trip around Europe.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “it”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in take it vs take up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: take it or take up?

In daily conversation, people use take up more often than take it. This is because take up is used for more positive and proactive actions such as learning a new skill or starting a new job. Take it is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about accepting something that we don't necessarily like or agree with. So, while both phrases are used, take up is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take it and take up

Take it 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 it and take up

The tone of take it and take up can differ based on context. Take it often carries a resigned or reluctant tone when related to accepting something unpleasant or unwanted, while take up typically has an enthusiastic and motivated tone, especially when referring to starting a new hobby or activity.

take it & take up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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