assume the throne

USAGE SUMMARY

"assume the throne" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiomatic phrase often used to refer to someone taking power, such as a monarch ascending to the throne or a leader taking on a new role. For example, "After her father's death, the princess was expected to assume the throne and rule the kingdom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

In "Black Panther," T'Chaka's son, T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman), returns to Wakanda to assume the throne.

The New Yorker

Under postwar Japanese law, only males are allowed to assume the throne.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Mordecai tipped off the king about a plot he had uncovered: that Haman also planned to assassinate Xerxes and assume the throne.

The New York Times

Now, the eldest child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, regardless of whether it is a boy or a girl, will assume the throne after his father.

The New Yorker

But he may also have hopes that the situation in his country will eventually permit him to return as a constitutional monarch, or at least let his son assume the throne.

The Guardian

Having immersed herself in 18th-century science, an obvious pathway was further back to the beginnings of the Royal Society, set up in 1660, the year Charles II returned to England to assume the throne.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

In Brussels on October 25, 1555, Charles V abdicated the Netherlands to his son, who in January 1556 assumed the throne of Spain as Philip II.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Upon the king's death Tarquin assumed the throne.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With Otto back in Germany, Adalbert assumed the throne again.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was only 18 when his older brother died and he assumed the throne in 1946.

The New York Times

He coldbloodedly poisons him, assumes the throne and marries his brother's widow.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "assume the throne" when referring to the act of taking on royal power or leadership, especially when there is a formal or traditional process involved. Ensure that the context clearly indicates a transfer of power or authority.

Common error

Avoid using "assume the throne" in contexts that do not involve a formal or traditional transfer of power. For instance, it would be inappropriate to say a CEO "assumed the throne" of a company; instead, use phrases like "took the helm" or "became the leader".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assume the throne" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of taking on the responsibilities and power associated with a monarchical position. It typically describes a formal or expected transition of power, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

24%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "assume the throne" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of taking on royal power. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correctly and widely used. Predominantly found in news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources, it carries a neutral to formal register. Related phrases include "ascend to the throne" and "succeed to the throne". When using the phrase, it's important to consider its traditional association with royalty and avoid misapplication in non-royal contexts. Understanding the nuances of "assume the throne" ensures accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ascend to the throne

Focuses on the act of rising to a higher position, particularly in a monarchy.

succeed to the throne

Emphasizes the hereditary or rightful nature of taking the throne.

take the reins of power

Implies gaining control and direction, not exclusively for monarchies.

inherit the crown

Specifically refers to inheriting a monarchy through familial succession.

come to power

A more general phrase for acquiring authority, applicable in various contexts.

take over the kingdom

Highlights the act of gaining control over a monarchical territory.

become the ruler

A broad term for assuming a leadership role, not necessarily monarchical.

step into power

Suggests a transition into a position of authority, less formal.

seize the throne

Implies taking the throne forcefully or illegitimately.

usurp the crown

Conveys the act of illegally seizing power from a rightful ruler.

FAQs

How is "assume the throne" typically used in a sentence?

"Assume the throne" is generally used to describe the formal process of a monarch or royal family member taking power. For example, "After the king's death, his eldest son was expected to "assume the throne"."

What are some alternatives to "assume the throne"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "ascend to the throne", "succeed to the throne", or "take the reins of power".

Is "assume the throne" appropriate for non-royal leadership transitions?

While "assume the throne" is traditionally associated with royalty, it can be used metaphorically to describe someone taking a leading position in a company or organization. However, it's best to reserve this phrase for situations where the transition is formal and significant. Otherwise consider alternatives like "take the helm".

What is the difference between "assume the throne" and "seize the throne"?

"Assume the throne" typically implies a legitimate or expected transfer of power, such as through inheritance or established protocol. "Seize the throne", on the other hand, suggests a forceful or illegitimate taking of power, often against the existing order. It is more similar to "usurp the crown".