take exception

USAGE SUMMARY

'take exception' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to express disagreement with or objection to something. For example, "I take exception to the suggestion that I should be the one to clean up the mess."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"People take exception".

The New York Times - Sports

Other Bolognese take exception.

The New York Times

Some take exception to that.

The New York Times - Sports

I take exception to that.

The New York Times

"I take exception," Mr. Rolph insisted.

The New York Times

I take exception to their account.

The New York Times - Magazine

Asamoah Gyan might take exception to that.

The Guardian - Sport

Naturally, I take exception to this stereotype.

The New York Times

Critics take exception to the "don't worry, be happy" approach.

The New York Times

Bush was constrained to take exception to this publicly.

The New Yorker

Who wouldn't take exception to something along the way?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when choosing "take exception". It's often used in formal discussions or writing, but might sound overly stiff in casual conversation.

Common error

Avoid using "take exception" in casual conversations. It can sound overly formal or even pretentious in informal settings. Simpler alternatives like "I disagree" or "I don't think so" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take exception" functions as a verb phrase used to express disagreement or objection. As evidenced by Ludwig, it often introduces a statement that challenges a previous claim or assertion. It indicates a reasoned disagreement rather than a simple difference of opinion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take exception" is a versatile and common way to express disagreement or objection. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it indicates a reasoned opposition. It is most frequently found in news and media, formal business settings, and scientific discussions, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When writing, remember that while "take exception" is grammatically correct and widely understood, it should be used judiciously in informal settings where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. The alternative phrases includes "object to", "disagree with", and "take issue with".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take issue with

Similar in tone and formality to "take exception".

object to

A more direct and less idiomatic way to express disagreement.

disagree with

A simple and straightforward expression of disagreement.

raise objections to

A more formal way of expressing disagreement.

protest against

Implies a stronger, more active form of objection.

challenge

Suggests questioning the validity or truth of something.

express dissent

Highlights the act of differing in opinion, often in a formal setting.

voice disapproval

Emphasizes the act of making one's negative feelings known.

beg to differ

A polite and sometimes ironic way of disagreeing.

find fault with

Focuses on identifying flaws or weaknesses.

FAQs

What does it mean to "take exception" to something?

To "take exception" means to object to or disagree with something, often implying a mild feeling of offense or annoyance. It's a more formal way of expressing disagreement.

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

You can use "take exception" to introduce a statement of disagreement. For example, "I "take exception" to your characterization of my work."

What's the difference between "take exception" and "disagree"?

"Take exception" is more formal and often implies a stronger feeling of objection than simply "disagreeing". Disagree is more neutral and commonly used.

Are there synonyms for "take exception" that I can use?

Yes, you can use phrases like "object to", "take issue with", or "dispute" as alternatives to "take exception", depending on the specific context.