What are the definitions of “take it”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Accept criticism.
He's good at criticising others, but can't TAKE IT himself.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “take it”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb take it is to accept criticism or endure a difficult situation. It means that someone can handle criticism or difficult situations without getting upset or angry.
What are the different verb forms of “take it”?
| Root Verb | take it |
| Third Person Singular Present | takes it |
| Present Participle | taking it |
| Simple Past | took it |
| Past Participle | taken 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.
Example
He is taking it well, even though the situation is tough.
Example
She took it well when her friends teased her about her new haircut.
Example
He has taken it well, despite the challenges he faced.
What kind of phrasal verb is “take it”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“take it” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She took it well when her boss gave her feedback.
Example
He took it well, even though the situation was tough.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“take it” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She took it well when her boss gave her feedback.
Example
He took it well, even though the situation was tough.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “take it”?
Good things to know
Does “take it” have an informal or formal tone?
Take it is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can be used in both casual and more formal settings, depending on the context. For example, when discussing someone's ability to handle criticism, take it can be used in a more formal tone.
