What are the definitions of “take over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “take over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb take over is to assume control or responsibility for something, such as a company, organization, or job position. It often refers to a change in leadership or management.
What are the different verb forms of “take over”?
| Root Verb | take over |
| Third Person Singular Present | takes over |
| Present Participle | taking over |
| Simple Past | took over |
| Past Participle | taken over |
Example
The new CEO will take over the company next month.
Example
She takes over the project management role from her predecessor.
Example
He is taking over the family business after his father's retirement.
Example
They took over the store when the previous owner retired.
Example
The company has been taken over by a larger corporation.
What kind of phrasal verb is “take over”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“take over” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The new manager took over the project.
Example
The larger company took the smaller company over.
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 over” 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
The new manager took over the project.
Example
The larger company took the smaller company over.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “take over”?
Good things to know
Does “take over” have an informal or formal tone?
Take over is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in business and professional settings, as well as in everyday conversations.
