Phrasal verbs "take over" vs "take up"

Differences between take over and take up

Take over means to assume control or responsibility for something, while take up means to start a new hobby, activity, or task.

Meanings and Definitions: take over vs take up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

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 over, take up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

take over

Example

The new CEO will take over the company next month.

Example

She takes over the project management role from her predecessor.

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 over

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

Example

After the CEO resigned, John was asked to assume control of the company.

To become responsible for leading or managing a group or project.

Example

She decided to take charge of the fundraising campaign and successfully raised the target amount.

To assume control or authority over a military unit or operation.

Example

The general was ordered to take command of the troops and lead them to victory.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take up

To begin a new activity or hobby.

Example

He decided to start doing yoga to improve his flexibility and reduce stress.

pick up

To start learning or practicing a new skill or activity.

Example

She wanted to pick up a new language, so she enrolled in a Spanish course.

To start a new project or journey with enthusiasm and determination.

Example

After saving enough money, they decided to embark on a backpacking trip across Europe.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: take over or take up?

In daily conversation, people use take up more often than take over. This is because take up is used to talk about starting new things, which is a common topic in casual conversations. Take over is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about business or politics. So, while both phrases are used, take up is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Take over 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 over and take up

The tone of take over and take up can differ based on context. Take over often carries a serious or assertive tone when related to assuming control or responsibility, while take up typically has an enthusiastic and positive tone, especially when referring to starting a new hobby or activity.

take over & take up: Synonyms and Antonyms

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