take hold of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take hold of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an action of grabbing or seizing something with one's hands. Example: She took hold of the bag and pulled it up from the ground.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Today, they take hold of the camera".

The New Yorker

They take hold of me.

The New York Times

"Take hold of your corners," shouts Auntie Vera.

The Guardian - Books

You've got to take hold of every day".

The Guardian - Music

"It's a wonderful way to take hold of light.

The New York Times - Arts

But fatalism did not take hold of Liverpool.

The Guardian - Sport

"I want to physically take hold of this moment before it escapes me.

The New York Times - Books

"It's over!" "What's over?" he said, trying to take hold of her.

The New Yorker

Man say: I got to take hold of this here world, baby!

The New Yorker

Writer discusses foreign policy & says perhaps Ford wants to take hold of it himself.

The New Yorker

The flames blaze high, the Rhine rises, and the Rhinemaidens take hold of the Ring.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take hold of" when you want to describe physically grasping something, seizing an opportunity, or gaining control of a situation. It conveys a sense of action and assertiveness.

Common error

Avoid using "take hold of" when referring to abstract concepts that cannot be physically grasped. For instance, instead of saying "take hold of happiness", consider using "embrace happiness" or "find happiness".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take hold of" functions primarily as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI indicates that it is used to describe the action of grasping something physically or metaphorically seizing control or responsibility. It requires an object to complete its meaning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take hold of" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the action of physically grasping something or metaphorically seizing control or responsibility. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is frequently found in news and media, as well as general writing, maintaining a neutral tone. Alternative phrases include "seize control of", "grasp firmly", and "assume responsibility for", each offering subtle differences in meaning. When using "take hold of", ensure it aligns with the intended context, avoiding misuse with abstract concepts. The phrase's high frequency and diverse application make it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seize control of

Emphasizes the act of gaining command or authority.

grasp firmly

Highlights the physical act of holding something tightly.

assume responsibility for

Focuses on accepting accountability and ownership.

gain possession of

Stresses the acquisition of ownership or control.

get a grip on

Implies understanding and managing a situation.

establish dominance over

Indicates asserting authority and control.

lay claim to

Suggests asserting a right or title to something.

capture

Highlights the act of seizing or taking something, often quickly or forcefully.

procure

Focuses on obtaining something, often through effort.

get one's hands on

Informal way of expressing acquiring or obtaining something.

FAQs

How can I use "take hold of" in a sentence?

You can use "take hold of" to describe grabbing something, seizing an opportunity, or gaining control, as in "She had to "take hold of" the situation before it spiraled out of control".

What are some alternatives to "take hold of"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "seize control of", "grasp firmly", or "assume responsibility for".

Is it correct to say "took hold of" instead of "take hold of"?

Yes, "took hold of" is the past tense form of the phrase. For example, "The trend "took hold of" the nation quickly".

What's the difference between "take hold of" and "get hold of"?

"Take hold of" often implies a more deliberate or forceful action of grasping or seizing, whereas "get hold of" can simply mean to obtain or find something.