Differences between take off and take on
Take off usually means to remove something, especially clothing or accessories, or to leave a place, while take on generally means to assume responsibility or a new role, or to accept a challenge or task.
Meanings and Definitions: take off vs take on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Take off
- 1Make great progress.
The software house really TOOK OFF when they produced the latest version of their DTP package.
- 2Reduce the price of an item.
They've TAKEN ten percent OFF designer frames for glasses.
- 3When a plane departs or leaves the ground.
The flight for Dublin TOOK OFF on time.
- 4Remove.
It was hot, so I TOOK my jacket OFF.
Take on
- 1Allow passengers on a ship or plane.
The plane stopped at Zurich to TAKE ON some passengers.
- 2Assume a responsibility.
She TOOK ON the task of indexing the book.
- 3Employ.
The council has had to TAKE ON twenty extra employees to handle their increased workload.
Usage Examples: take off, take on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
take off
Example
The plane is scheduled to take off at 3 pm.
Example
The airplane takes off in 30 minutes.
take on
Example
I am ready to take on this new project.
Example
She takes on extra work to help her team.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take off
To take something away from a place or position.
Example
She removed her shoes before entering the house.
strip off
To remove clothing or other items quickly and eagerly.
Example
After a long day at work, he stripped off his suit and jumped into the pool.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take on
To accept or assume a responsibility or duty.
Example
As the team leader, she had to shoulder the responsibility of making sure the project was completed on time.
embrace a challenge
To willingly accept or face a difficult or demanding situation.
Example
She was determined to embrace the challenge of climbing the highest peak in the region.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in take off vs take on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: take off or take on?
In daily conversation, people use take off more often than take on. This is because take off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as removing clothes or leaving a place. Take on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about accepting a new responsibility or challenge. So, while both phrases are used, take off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take off and take on
Take off and take on 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 off and take on
The tone of take off and take on can differ based on context. Take off often carries a practical or casual tone, especially when referring to removing clothes or accessories, while take on typically has a more serious or determined tone, especially when referring to assuming responsibility or accepting a challenge.
