take a strike

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take a strike" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to sports, particularly baseball, or in informal situations where someone is attempting to take a chance or risk. Example: "He decided to take a strike at the opportunity to invest in the new startup."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Mario said, 'Trust me.' I said, 'I'll take a strike and I'll break it.

The New Yorker

"I'm not afraid to take a strike now," said White, who is a right-handed hitter.

The New York Times - Sports

She made no comment as she walked into the building but did take a strike leaflet from union members.

The Guardian

He noted after Sunday's loss that he continues to take a strike in the vast majority of his at-bats.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not as if Torre stands in the middle of the clubhouse and tells them to take a strike in their first at-bat.

The New York Times - Sports

Eric Karros, a former Dodgers first baseman and now a Fox Sports analyst, said, "I would take a strike at the letters any day of the week over those strikes they call side to side".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Then Adams takes a strike.

The Guardian - Sport

Top right: Lisa takes a strike and dip measurement.

University of California, Berkeley

Jacoby Ellsbury bluffs a bunt, takes a strike.

The Guardian - Sport

Hall took a strike, then fouled off two pitches.

The New York Times - Sports

MR. AHMED -- It takes a strike and it's over.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take a strike" in the context of labor disputes, ensure you clearly indicate who is taking the strike and why to avoid ambiguity. For baseball contexts, focus on the strategy and outcome of "taking a strike".

Common error

Avoid using "take a strike" when you mean to say "go on strike" or "initiate a strike". The former implies enduring or accepting a strike, while the latter implies initiating one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a strike" serves as a verb phrase, with varied functions. In baseball contexts, it signifies a strategic choice to not swing; in labor disputes, it denotes enduring a work stoppage. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

13%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take a strike" has distinct meanings depending on the context. In baseball, it's a strategic decision, while in labor disputes, it implies enduring or withstanding a strike. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity and indicates its use in contexts ranging from sports to risk-taking scenarios. Common usage occurs in News & Media, emphasizing its relevance in reporting on these varied situations. Remember to differentiate it from similar phrases like "go on strike" to avoid confusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

participate in a strike

General term for being involved in a strike, whether as an organizer or a member.

join a strike

Refers to becoming a participant in an already ongoing strike action.

call a strike

Indicates the act of officially announcing or initiating a strike.

initiate a strike

Focuses on starting or beginning a strike action, rather than simply participating in one.

stage a strike

Implies actively organizing and carrying out a strike.

undertake a strike

Implies a more formal or deliberate decision to engage in a strike.

vote for a strike

Specifically relates to the act of casting a vote in favor of initiating a strike.

authorize a strike

Emphasizes the formal approval or permission given for a strike to proceed.

consider a strike

Highlights the phase of contemplating or evaluating the possibility of a strike.

endorse a strike

Highlights the support or backing given to an existing or planned strike.

FAQs

How is "take a strike" used in baseball?

In baseball, "take a strike" refers to a batter choosing not to swing at a pitch, allowing it to be called a strike by the umpire. This can be a strategic decision based on the count or the pitcher's tendencies.

What does it mean to "take a strike" in the context of labor unions?

In labor disputes, to "take a strike" can mean to endure or withstand a strike action initiated by workers, often implying that the employer is prepared to continue operations despite the work stoppage.

What can I say instead of "take a strike" when referring to union action?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "initiate a strike", "undertake a strike" or "authorize a strike".

Is "take a strike" the same as "go on strike"?

No, "take a strike" and "go on strike" have different meanings. "Go on strike" means to initiate or participate in a work stoppage as a form of protest, while "take a strike" suggests enduring or withstanding a strike initiated by others.