Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

not of taking

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not of taking" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express a negation related to the act of taking, but it lacks clarity and proper grammatical structure. Example: "This is a decision not of taking but of giving."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Making is "what if?" and "why not?"—of taking responsibility for challenges and obstacles faced by oneself and one's community and enacting solutions.

Our first thoughts when socialising are not of taking a sip out of that long-awaited cocktail.

News & Media

Independent

And anger that the talk in Washington is not of taking troops out of Iraq, but of sending more in.

News & Media

The New York Times

On both occasions the team was suspected not of taking drugs, the sin you might have expected at the highest level of sport, but of containing members too young to take part.The demands of women's gymnastics favour the young.

News & Media

The Economist

"I suddenly got the idea not of taking up the story in 1952, where I had left it, but rather to take it up in the present," he told Reuters.

"It should be a matter not of taking the sugar off the table but of trying to put the sugar out of reach except to those in direct flight from persecution, and leaving the sugar available to those who manage to reach the table whether by plane or boat, with or without a visa," Mr. Brennan wrote.

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

He would not think of taking from both sides".

News & Media

The New Yorker

"We are not capable of taking care of all of Mali," he said.

News & Media

The New Yorker

THE COST Expensive enough to demonstrate you're not afraid of taking a risk.

News & Media

The New York Times

"We are not afraid of taking legal action if that is the appropriate step".

News & Media

BBC

She's not afraid of taking a chance.

News & Media

Los Angeles Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Replace the phrase "not of taking" with clearer alternatives like "not about taking" or "instead of taking" to ensure clarity and grammatical correctness.

Common error

Avoid using "not of taking" as it is often perceived as grammatically incorrect. This structure can confuse readers, so opt for more direct and common expressions.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

81%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not of taking" functions as a prepositional phrase attempting to negate the action of "taking". However, as Ludwig AI points out, this construction is grammatically questionable and often unclear. It is best to use alternative phrasing for better clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "not of taking" attempts to negate the action of taking, Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically questionable and uncommon. With only one exact example identified, its usage is rare, and it's generally advisable to opt for clearer alternatives such as "not about taking" or "instead of taking". These alternatives enhance clarity and ensure effective communication by avoiding awkward phrasing. Using direct and familiar expressions ensures your writing remains precise and easily understood.

FAQs

What does "not of taking" mean?

The phrase "not of taking" is grammatically awkward and not commonly used. It attempts to negate the act of taking, but it is better expressed using alternatives like "not about taking" or "instead of taking".

How can I use "not of taking" correctly?

While grammatically questionable, if you intend to use "not of taking", ensure the context clearly contrasts an alternative action or focus. However, consider replacing it with phrases like "not concerning taking" for better clarity.

Which is correct, "not of taking" or "not about taking"?

"Not about taking" is generally preferred and considered grammatically correct. "Not of taking" is an uncommon and awkward construction that can be confusing.

What's the difference between "not of taking" and "instead of taking"?

"Instead of taking" suggests a clear alternative action, whereas "not of taking" attempts to negate the act of taking without directly providing an alternative, often leading to confusion. Using "instead of taking" is clearer and more direct.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

81%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: