take cover

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take cover" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts where someone is advised to protect themselves from danger, such as during an emergency or attack. Example: "When the alarm sounded, everyone was instructed to take cover under their desks until it was safe to come out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We take cover.

The New Yorker

Take cover in the bushes".

The New York Times

Rose: Take cover.

The New York Times

"They did not take cover".

The New York Times

His assistant urged him to take cover.

The New York Times

But for today, prepare to take cover.

The New York Times

Take cover behind the tree trunks.

The New Yorker

But when she's liberated, take cover.

The New York Times

Sirens warned the Americans to take cover.

The New York Times

"We had to run to take cover.

The New York Times

I mean, you must take cover.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "take cover", provide specific directions about where to find the safest shelter, such as "Take cover behind the concrete wall".

Common error

Avoid assuming that any form of cover guarantees complete safety. While "take cover" suggests seeking protection, remember that some materials offer better protection than others. For instance, taking cover behind a wooden fence might not be sufficient during a severe storm or active shooting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take cover" functions primarily as an imperative verb phrase. Ludwig AI validates this, showing its use in directing actions to ensure safety. It’s a direct command, urging immediate action to protect oneself from danger.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

38%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take cover" is a common and grammatically correct imperative verb phrase used to instruct individuals to seek immediate protection from danger. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in tone, its directness makes it suitable for various situations, though specifying the type of cover is advisable for clarity. Remember, while "take cover" urges immediate action, understanding the limitations of the chosen shelter is crucial for safety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

duck for cover

Specifies a quick, downward movement for protection, often from projectiles or explosions; more immediate and reactive.

take shelter

Similar to "seek shelter" but emphasizes the act of temporarily residing in a protected space.

seek shelter

Implies finding a place that provides protection from the elements or danger; more general than "take cover".

dive for safety

Similar to "duck for cover" and more descriptive than "take cover", indicates a rapid, prone movement towards a safe spot.

run for safety

Emphasizes the act of fleeing to a safer location, implying immediate danger.

get to safety

Focuses on reaching a secure location, highlighting the destination rather than the action.

find refuge

Suggests seeking a safe place from persecution or hardship; carries a stronger connotation of desperation.

go into hiding

Implies deliberately concealing oneself to avoid detection, often from authorities or enemies.

retreat

Suggests a strategic withdrawal from a dangerous situation; more formal and military in tone.

lie low

Indicates avoiding attention or remaining inconspicuous to prevent trouble; more informal and often used in criminal contexts.

FAQs

How do you use "take cover" in a sentence?

The phrase "take cover" is used to instruct someone to find a safe place to protect themselves from danger. For example: "When you hear the siren, "take cover" immediately!"

What's a more descriptive alternative to "take cover"?

Depending on the context, you could use more descriptive phrases like "duck for cover" (if immediate and reactive action is needed) or "seek shelter" (if finding a safer location is the priority).

In what situations is it appropriate to use "take cover"?

"Take cover" is appropriate in any situation where there is an immediate threat of danger, such as during a storm, an active shooter situation, or an explosion. It's a direct instruction to find protection.

Is "take cover" formal or informal?

"Take cover" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal situations where there is a need to instruct someone to seek protection. However, in very formal contexts, "seek refuge" might be preferred.