it took heart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it took heart" is not a standard expression in written English and may be confusing without context.
It could be used in a context where someone is expressing that something required courage or emotional strength. Example: "To stand up for what she believed in, it took heart to confront the challenges ahead."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A satisfied Costa Rica hailed the decision, and while Nicaragua lamented the loss of the territory it took heart from some sharp criticism of its neighbour for building a road along the banks.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"I think it takes heart to produce new work.

The New York Times

It takes heart.

Forbes

It takes heart to feel the feelings I fought so hard to bury.

Huffington Post

To all the ladies out there waiting for him to put a ring on it, take heart.

Huffington Post

It takes heart, courage, trust, patience and belief to not only begin the journey, but to stay the course.

Huffington Post

It takes heart to visualize a world without sexual violence and to speak up, challenge social norms, and implement change that moves us toward this vision.

Huffington Post

The market took heart.

The Economist

Ukip was disappointed to win only one seat – Clacton – but it has taken heart from achieving second place in 120 seats.

Independent

You'll want to read it and take heart in the dark hours of your startup's life.

TechCrunch

(and breathe out.. you'll get the hang of it...) Take heart.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it took heart" to emphasize the emotional or moral strength needed to overcome a challenge or make a difficult decision. It adds a layer of depth to the action, highlighting the inner resources required.

Common error

Avoid using "it took heart" when a simpler phrase like "it required effort" would suffice. The phrase carries a strong emotional connotation, and overuse can dilute its impact. Reserve it for situations where genuine courage or emotional fortitude is involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it took heart" functions as a predicate, indicating that a particular action or decision necessitated courage, bravery or emotional resilience. As Ludwig AI indicates, it implies more than mere effort; it signifies a deeper level of emotional investment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it took heart" is a versatile expression used to emphasize that a particular action, decision, or situation required significant courage, emotional strength, or moral fortitude. As Ludwig AI shows, it's prevalent in news and media, suggesting a neutral register suitable for a range of contexts. Alternatives like "it required courage" or "it demanded bravery" can be used to achieve a similar effect, depending on the specific nuance desired. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the emotional weight it carries and reserve it for situations where genuine inner strength is involved. Remember, it's more than just effort; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it required courage

Focuses directly on the courage needed.

it demanded bravery

Emphasizes the bravery that was necessary.

it necessitated fortitude

Highlights the need for mental and emotional strength.

it called for resolve

Stresses the importance of determination and resolve.

it involved daring

Emphasizes the element of risk and boldness.

it needed valor

Highlights the valor and heroism involved.

it took nerve

Focuses on the boldness and audacity required.

it required backbone

Emphasizes the need for strength of character.

it showed grit

Highlights the perseverance and toughness displayed.

it demonstrated resilience

Focuses on the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

FAQs

How can I use "it took heart" in a sentence?

You can use "it took heart" to describe an action that required courage or emotional strength. For example, "To stand up for what she believed in, "it took heart" to confront the challenges ahead."

What are some alternatives to "it took heart"?

Some alternatives include "it required courage", "it demanded bravery", or "it necessitated fortitude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it took heart" formal or informal?

The phrase "it took heart" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more frequently found in news and media.

What's the difference between "it took heart" and "it required effort"?

"It took heart" implies that the action needed emotional or moral strength, while "it required effort" simply suggests that the action needed physical or mental exertion. "It took heart" conveys a deeper sense of personal investment and courage.