take it off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take it off" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a common expression used to indicate removing something, usually an article of clothing or an item. It can also be used figuratively to mean to remove or let go of a burden or responsibility. Example: "The weather is getting hot, so I need to take off this sweater." (literal meaning) Example: "After years of hard work, I finally get to take off my CEO hat and retire." (figurative meaning).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They said to take it off".

The New York Times

"Should I take it off?" she asked.

The New York Times

'Then take it off,' he says.

The New Yorker

"Take it off, brothers!" a woman shouted.

The New Yorker

They won't take it off".

The New York Times

Why? Well take it OFF.

The New York Times

"To take it off again".

The Guardian

Don't put it off — take it off!

Harvard University

"Take it off, take it off," said Mr. Daniels, in a bit of double entendre.

The New York Times

"Take it off," Mr. McCreight joked.

The New York Times

"Please take it off your systems.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to remove clothing or accessories, use "take it off" for clarity and directness. For example, "Please take off your shoes before entering the house."

Common error

Avoid using "take it off" when you mean to "remove it" in formal writing. While "take it off" is acceptable in casual contexts, "remove it" is more appropriate for professional communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take it off" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, used to express the action of removing something. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage across different contexts. It typically involves a direct object ('it') referring to the item being removed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

30%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take it off" is a common and generally informal phrasal verb that instructs or requests the removal of something. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Wiki sources. While grammatically correct, more formal alternatives like "remove it" may be preferable in professional settings. Remember to use "take it off" for direct and casual communication, and consider the context when choosing between it and its more formal synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remove it

A more formal and direct synonym for removing an item.

detach it

Emphasizes the separation or unfastening of something.

peel it off

Suggests removing something that is stuck or adhered to a surface.

strip it off

Implies a quick or forceful removal, often of clothing.

shed it

Suggests discarding something no longer needed, similar to an animal shedding its skin.

get rid of it

Focuses on eliminating or discarding something unwanted.

doff it

A more archaic or formal way to say remove, usually referring to a hat.

unfasten it

Emphasizes the act of undoing a fastening or closure.

slip it off

Suggests a smooth and easy removal, often of clothing.

jettison it

Implies discarding something, often in an emergency or for strategic reasons.

FAQs

How to use "take it off" in a sentence?

"Take it off" is commonly used to instruct someone to remove an item, like clothing or accessories. For example, "It's hot in here; you can "take it off" if you want".

What can I say instead of "take it off"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "remove it", "detach it", or "peel it off". The most appropriate substitute depends on the specific situation and the item being removed.

Is "take it off" formal or informal?

"Take it off" is generally considered informal. In formal settings, it's better to use alternatives like "remove it".

When is it appropriate to use "take it off"?

It's appropriate to use "take it off" in casual conversations, instructions, or informal writing. For example, telling a child to "take it off" their muddy boots.