I took exception to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I took exception to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express disagreement or offense regarding a statement or action. Example: "I took exception to the remarks made during the meeting, as they were not reflective of our team's values."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

That was the issue I took exception to".

BBC

I took exception to this, because clearly it was going to be judged by subjective people giving away taxpayer dollars.

The New York Times - Magazine

"The issue I took exception to was the very select use of data which could not be used, in and of itself, to prove positive tests.

Independent

I think our bragging rights are gone.Brent Kroeker Winnipeg, CanadaPassions on the borderSIR – I took exception to your leader about the new immigration law in Arizona, in which you repeated many of the incorrect generalisations popularised in the mainstream media ("Fools rush in", May 8th).

The Economist

Of course I took exception to this assertion.

Huffington Post

I took exception to this and ranted right right back at him on how these phoney images can cause young girls (and some, but fewer, boys) to have eating disorders.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

I take exception to that.

The New York Times

I take exception to their account.

The New York Times - Magazine

Naturally, I take exception to this stereotype.

The New York Times

And I take exception to Mr. Benjamin's assessment of the creditor's position in these matters.

The New York Times

"I take exception to the claim that the rerouting has caused congestion," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I took exception to" when you want to express disagreement with a specific statement or action, particularly when you feel it's inappropriate or incorrect. It adds a layer of formality and emphasis to your objection.

Common error

Avoid using "I took exception to" in casual contexts where a simple "I disagree" would suffice. The phrase is more appropriate when the disagreement is significant or involves a point of principle.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I took exception to" functions as a declarative statement expressing disagreement or objection to something previously said or done. It typically introduces the reason for disagreement and indicates a contrast in opinion. Ludwig AI confirms this through its analysis of numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I took exception to" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in written English, used to express disagreement or objection, often with a hint of offense. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's typically employed in neutral to professional contexts, particularly within news and media. While "I disagreed with" or "I objected to" serve as simpler alternatives, "I took exception to" adds a layer of formality. It's crucial to reserve this phrase for instances where the disagreement is significant, avoiding its use in casual conversations. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, its usage suggests a calculated expression of disapproval.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I took issue with

Very close in meaning, often used interchangeably.

I objected to

Directly expresses disagreement, similar in tone and intensity.

I disagreed with

A more general term for not being in agreement.

I protested against

Emphasizes a stronger, more active form of objection.

I expressed my disapproval of

A more formal and explicit declaration of disagreement.

I challenged

Implies questioning or disputing a statement or action.

I contested

Formally disputes or argues against something.

I opposed

Indicates resistance or disapproval.

I demurred at

Suggests a polite or formal refusal to agree.

I found fault with

Focuses on identifying errors or shortcomings.

FAQs

What does "I took exception to" mean?

It means that you disagreed with something and felt it was inappropriate or objectionable. It's a more formal way of saying "I disagreed" or "I objected".

How can I use "I took exception to" in a sentence?

You can use it to express disagreement with a statement, action, or idea. For example, "I took exception to his remarks about my work ethic".

What are some alternatives to "I took exception to"?

Alternatives include "I objected to", "I disagreed with", or "I took issue with", depending on the context and level of formality you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I take exception to" or "I took exception to"?

"I take exception to" implies a present, ongoing disagreement, while "I took exception to" refers to a past disagreement. The correct tense depends on whether you're still disagreeing or referring to a past event.