Take down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Take down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of removing or dismantling something, such as a structure, a piece of information, or a post. Example: "Please take down the old posters from the wall before we put up the new ones."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Take down embarrassing photos.

The New Yorker

Take down a musical instrument.

The Guardian - Opinion

Take down the #ConfederateFlag at the SC Capitol.

Independent

Take Down Policy.

SEP

Take down the banner.

Huffington Post

Take down full details.

WikiHow

Take down the leader.

WikiHow

Take down your curls.

WikiHow

Take down all information.

WikiHow

Take down Champion Diantha!

WikiHow

Take down notes.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Take down" to mean 'to write something down', ensure the context is clear to avoid ambiguity with its other meanings, such as 'to remove' or 'to defeat'.

Common error

Avoid using "Take down" when a more specific verb like "remove", "record", or "dismantle" would provide greater clarity and precision in your writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "take down" is as a phrasal verb. It combines a verb (take) with a particle (down) to create a new verb with a distinct meaning. Ludwig showcases its usage in contexts ranging from physical removal to recording information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

28%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take down" is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings, including removing something, recording information, and defeating an opponent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequency is high, particularly in Wiki, News & Media, and Science contexts. While it's generally acceptable, writers should be mindful of potential ambiguity and consider using more specific alternatives when appropriate. Source quality is good, with many examples coming from authoritative sources like The New Yorker and The New York Times, and so the phrase can be used in variety of contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Remove

Emphasizes the act of displacing something from its current location.

Pull down

Focuses on the action of physically bringing something down.

Dismantle

Focuses on the process of taking something apart piece by piece.

Write down

Specifically refers to recording information in written form.

Jot down

Means to write something quickly and informally.

Record

Highlights the act of preserving information for future reference.

Defeat

Implies overcoming an opponent or challenge.

Lower

Focuses on reducing the height or position of something.

Demolish

Suggests completely destroying or tearing down a structure.

Overthrow

Implies the forceful removal of a leader or system of power.

FAQs

What does "Take down" mean?

"Take down" can mean to remove something, record information, defeat someone, or dismantle a structure. The exact meaning depends on the context.

How can I use "Take down" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "Please "remove" the decorations" means to "Take down" the decorations. Or, "Did you "record" the details?" can mean "Did you take down the details?"

What can I say instead of "Take down" when referring to writing something?

Alternatives include "note", ""record"", or "jot down", depending on the level of formality and detail required.

What is the difference between "Take down" and "Write down"?

"Write down" specifically means to record information in writing. "Take down" can also mean this, but it has broader meanings, including removing something physically or defeating an opponent.