take a position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing an opinion, stance, or viewpoint on a particular issue or topic. Example: "In the debate about climate change, it is important for individuals to take a position and advocate for their beliefs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now declarer had to take a position.

The New York Times

I don't take a position.

The New York Times

When making a pitch, take a position of strength.

The New York Times

I don't mean to take a position yet.

The New York Times

Ms. Kagan did not take a position on the question.

The New York Times

Someone was paying them to take a position".

The New Yorker

When we get the information, we will take a position".

The New York Times

So, cautiously, he has declined to take a position.

The Economist

Coca-Cola did not take a position on the proposal.

The New York Times

By not taking a position, you take a position".

The Guardian - Film

They can take a position, and they have done.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take a position" when you want to clearly indicate that someone is expressing a specific opinion or stance on an issue. For instance, "The politician decided to take a position on the controversial bill."

Common error

Avoid using "take a position" in very casual conversations where simpler phrases like "give my opinion" or "say what I think" would be more appropriate. Overusing formal language can make your communication sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a position" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the action of adopting or expressing a specific viewpoint or stance on a particular issue. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in contexts where opinions or decisions are being articulated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take a position" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the act of adopting or expressing a viewpoint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it is essential to consider the context and choose simpler alternatives for very informal settings. Remember to use "take a position" when you want to highlight a specific opinion or stance, but be mindful of overuse in casual conversation. Understanding these nuances will help you use the phrase effectively and appropriately in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adopt a stance

Replaces "take" with "adopt" and "position" with "stance", emphasizing a deliberate choice of viewpoint.

assert a viewpoint

Emphasizes the confident declaration of a perspective.

make a stand

Emphasizes a public declaration of support or opposition.

express an opinion

Focuses on the act of voicing one's thoughts or beliefs, rather than the formation of a stance.

state one's views

Focuses on communicating personal beliefs.

formulate a viewpoint

Highlights the process of developing a perspective, rather than the act of declaring it.

embrace a belief

Highlights the acceptance and support of a particular idea.

develop an opinion

Highlights the process of forming a perspective.

stand one's ground

Implies defending a position against opposition.

adopt an attitude

Focuses on a more general disposition or feeling toward something.

FAQs

How can I use "take a position" in a sentence?

"Take a position" is used to indicate adopting or expressing a specific viewpoint or stance on a matter. For example, "The company needed to "adopt a stance" on environmental issues to improve its public image."

What can I say instead of "take a position"?

You can use alternatives like ""adopt a stance"", "express an opinion", or "state one's views" depending on the context.

Is it better to "take a position" or "make a stand"?

"Take a position" generally means to express an opinion or viewpoint. "Make a stand" implies taking action or publicly defending a belief, often in the face of opposition. The best choice depends on whether you're simply stating an opinion or actively supporting it.

What's the difference between "adopt an attitude" and "take a position"?

"Adopt an attitude" refers to developing a general feeling or disposition towards something, while "take a position" specifically means forming and expressing a viewpoint or stance on a particular issue.