it took away

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it took away" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the act of removing or subtracting something from a situation or experience. Example: "The unexpected news took away my motivation to continue with the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It took away my last hope".

The Guardian - Opinion

"It took away from me being bored.

The New York Times

Even more, it took away our inhibitions".

The New York Times

It took away any trepidation they may have had prior".

The New York Times

"It took away a lot of the work," she said.

The New York Times

It took away all their dignity as human beings.

The New Yorker

I thought it added more than it took away.

The New York Times

"It took away a bit of our religion," he said.

The New York Times

But it took away some of the restaurant's soul.

The New York Times - Food

"It took away all the charm," Mrs. Jammet said.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"It took away an opportunity.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it took away", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is being removed or diminished to maintain clarity and impact. For example, "The rain took away our hopes for a picnic."

Common error

Avoid using "it took away" without a clear reference to what "it" refers to. This can lead to confusion. Instead of saying "It took away from the experience", specify what "it" is: "The loud music took away from the experience."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it took away" functions as a causative verb phrase, indicating that something caused a loss or reduction. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Examples show its role in describing the removal of both tangible and intangible things.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Unknown

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it took away" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to describe the removal or diminishment of something, often with negative consequences. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common application across diverse contexts, most notably in News & Media. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what "it" refers to and what exactly was removed. Alternatives such as "it deprived" or "it diminished" can be used for nuanced expression. By avoiding vague antecedents and focusing on clarity, writers can effectively use "it took away" to convey impact and consequence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it deprived

This alternative indicates the act of withholding or denying something from someone.

it diminished

This alternative focuses on a reduction in size, importance, or quality.

it stripped away

This alternative suggests a forceful or thorough removal of something.

it eliminated

This alternative suggests a complete removal or eradication of something.

it negated

This alternative emphasizes the nullification or cancellation of something.

it subtracted

This alternative highlights the removal of a specific element or quantity.

it lessened

This alternative focuses on the act of making something smaller or weaker.

it eroded

This alternative implies a gradual wearing away or destruction of something.

it relieved me of

This alternative focuses on freeing someone from a burden or obligation.

it rid me of

This alternative highlights the act of freeing oneself from something unwanted.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it took away" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "it deprived", "it negated", or "it eliminated". For example, instead of "The scandal "it took away" his credibility", you could say "The scandal deprived him of his credibility".

What's a good synonym for "it took away" that implies a gradual loss?

If you want to imply a gradual loss, consider using "it eroded". For instance, "The constant criticism "it took away" her confidence" could be rephrased as "The constant criticism eroded her confidence".

How does "it took away" differ from "it removed"?

"It removed" generally refers to a more direct and immediate action of taking something away. "It took away" can imply a more gradual or consequential removal. For example, "The surgery removed the tumor" is a direct action, while "The illness took away his strength" suggests a gradual decline.

Is it correct to use "it took away from"?

Yes, "it took away from" is a grammatically correct and commonly used construction. It suggests that something diminished or detracted from another thing. For example, "The mistake "it took away" from the overall success of the project".