service took off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "service took off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where a service becomes popular or successful, often after a period of slow growth or initial struggle. Example: "After the marketing campaign launched, the new delivery service took off, attracting thousands of new customers within weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The service took off like a rocket when it first launched late last year.

TechCrunch

As the service took off Weiner moved out to Silicon Valley where he received multiple acquisition offers, but decided to keep the company independent.

TechCrunch

Snapchat began in 2011 at Stanford, and the service took off, finding purchase not just among the usual early adopter crowd, but also with mainstream users.

TechCrunch

Chatroulette took the world by storm in the beginning of the year, showing amazing viral growth as the communications service took off.

TechCrunch

The duo launched Lyft in May 2012 to provide some direct competition to Uber and the service took off from there, as TechCrunch's Ryan Lawler described in a long essay written last year.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

If the service takes off, however, one of our smallest supermarket chains could be a beneficiary.

The Guardian - Tech

The pallbearers are given some pointers a half-hour before the service: "Take off your gloves.

The New York Times

Not only does it hold an option to convert a $60m loan to Napster into a 58% stake, which would sky-rocket in value if the new service takes off.

The Economist

In reality, Mr. Newell is making $35,000 a year, but he hopes to hit it big financially if Service Advantage International, the company he helped found that helps corporations track customer service, takes off.

The New York Times - Tech

But if the Netflix service takes off, that strategy could shift quickly, since Blockbuster has acquired a business that specializes in mail-order rentals, according to one person close to the company.

The New York Times

Should the service take off, Hewlett could expand its lucrative business of selling huge digital printers to companies that would print the magazine and then ship its profitable inks by the barrel instead of the ounce.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "service took off", ensure that the context clearly indicates the point at which the service's growth became significant. Be specific about the factors contributing to its success if possible.

Common error

Avoid using "service took off" with overly general subjects. Instead of saying "The company's services took off", specify which service experienced significant growth for greater clarity. This can create more engaging content and avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "service took off" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of rapid growth or success of a service. As Ludwig AI suggests, it describes a point when popularity or usage dramatically increases.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "service took off" is a grammatically sound and understandable idiom used to express the sudden success of a service. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While its frequency is moderate, it's most commonly found in news and media sources. When writing, ensure that the context is clear and that the subject isn't too vague. Alternatives like "service gained momentum" or "service became a hit" may be suitable depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

service became a hit

This implies that the service was well-received and popular.

service exploded in popularity

This phrase highlights a very rapid and sudden increase in popularity.

service gained traction

Suggests that the service started to become popular and attract more users after an initial period of slow growth.

service gained momentum

This alternative emphasizes the gradual increase in popularity or success.

service saw rapid adoption

This alternative emphasizes the speed at which users started using the service.

service flourished

This alternative suggests thriving and vigorous growth.

service thrived

Implies prosperous and vigorous growth or success.

service experienced a surge

Highlights a sudden increase in use or popularity.

service became successful

This is a more general statement of success, lacking the implication of rapid growth.

service rose to prominence

Suggests a gradual climb to a leading or well-known position.

FAQs

What does it mean when a service "takes off"?

When a service "takes off", it means that it suddenly becomes very popular or successful after a period of slow growth or relative obscurity. It implies a rapid increase in usage, recognition, or profitability.

What are some alternative phrases for "service took off"?

You can use alternatives like "service gained momentum", "service became successful", or "service gained traction" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "service took off" formal or informal language?

The phrase "service took off" is considered relatively neutral in tone. While suitable for many contexts, more formal language might be preferred in highly professional or academic writing, such as "service experienced rapid growth".

How can I use "service took off" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "After implementing the new marketing strategy, the subscription service took off, attracting thousands of new users in a short period".