take it back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take it back" is a valid part of the English language, and can be used both in writing and in speech.
You can use it when you are withdrawing or retracting a statement or opinion. For example: "I said I wasn't going to help, but I've changed my mind - take it back."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Take it back, please take it back.

The New Yorker

Take it back".

The New York Times

So I take it back.

The New York Times

You could take it back.

The New Yorker

You should take it back.

The New Yorker

Here, take it back".

The New York Times - Magazine

"You want to badly take it back.

The New York Times - Sports

So, why would I take it back?

Independent

And he did take it back.

The New York Times

Isis desperately want to take it back.

Independent

He refused to take it back.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take it back" when you want to clearly and directly retract something you've said or offered. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "take it back" when the action or statement cannot be undone. For instance, you can't "take it back" once information has been widely distributed or if the consequences are permanent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take it back" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing retraction or withdrawal. As Ludwig AI points out, it's used when someone wants to undo a previous statement, offer, or action. It indicates a change of mind or regret over something previously communicated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take it back" is a common and versatile expression used to retract statements, offers, or actions. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is considered grammatically correct and widely understood. While suitable for most contexts, including News & Media, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in professional or academic settings. Remember to avoid using "take it back" when the action is irreversible. Overall, it’s a clear and direct way to signal a change of mind or express regret over something previously said or done.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

retract that statement

Emphasizes the act of withdrawing a previously made statement.

withdraw my comment

Focuses on removing a specific comment from consideration.

apologize for saying that

Highlights the apology aspect of regretting what was said.

unsay what I said

Implies reversing the act of speaking something.

recant my words

Formally disavows or retracts a previous statement.

eat my words

Idiomatically admits being wrong about something predicted or stated.

backpedal on that

Suggests retreating from a previously held position or statement.

renege on that

Focuses on failing to honor a commitment or promise.

reverse my decision

Highlights changing a previously made decision.

nullify that agreement

Formally cancels or invalidates an agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "take it back" in a sentence?

You can use "take it back" when you want to retract a statement or offer. For example, "I know I said I wouldn't help, but I "take it back", I'll assist you."

What's a more formal alternative to "take it back"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "I retract my statement", "I withdraw my previous comment", or "I "apologize" for saying that".

When is it inappropriate to use "take it back"?

It's inappropriate to use "take it back" in situations where the action or statement cannot be reversed. For example, you cannot use "take it back" after something has been made publicly available.

Is "take it back" suitable for professional communication?

While "take it back" is understandable, it might be perceived as informal in professional settings. Opt for phrases like "I'd like to "revise" my earlier statement" or "I wish to "retract" what I said" for greater formality.