take matters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take matters" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of addressing a situation or issue directly, often implying a sense of urgency or responsibility. Example: "When the situation escalated, she decided to take matters into her own hands and resolve the conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Companies need to take matters into their own hands.

The New York Times

But then the authors take matters one step further.

The New Yorker

I decided to take matters into my own hands.

The New York Times

So he decided to take matters into his own hands.

The New York Times

They decide to take matters into their own hands.

The New York Times - Books

We will take matters into our own hands".

The New York Times

If not, they will take matters into their own hands.

The Economist

He was advised to take matters into his own hands.

The Guardian - Tech

He resolved to take matters into his own hands.

The New York Times - Style

The latter decided to take matters into his own hands.

The Guardian

I'll have to take matters in my own hands.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take matters" to express a sense of agency and direct action. If you wish to imply collaboration or shared responsibility, consider alternative phrases.

Common error

Avoid using "take matters" when the situation could be resolved through established protocols or collaborative efforts. Overusing this phrase might suggest an unnecessary escalation or distrust in existing systems.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take matters" functions as a verb phrase that often implies a decision to actively intervene or assume control in a situation, especially when other methods are deemed insufficient. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Wiki

13%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take matters" is a versatile verb phrase that signals direct action and personal intervention. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts, to communicate a sense of agency. While the phrase maintains a neutral register, it is more suited for situations that warrant immediate action and where reliance on standard protocol is lacking. Keep in mind to consider alternatives like "assume responsibility" or "address the issue" when nuance or a more formal tone is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

handle the situation

Focuses on managing or dealing with a particular set of circumstances.

address the issue

Highlights dealing with a specific problem or concern.

take charge

Highlights the act of gaining control or command.

assume responsibility

Shifts the focus to the act of accepting accountability.

seize control

Suggests a more forceful or decisive action to gain dominance.

deal with it directly

Emphasizes a straightforward and immediate approach.

step in

Emphasizes intervention or involvement in a situation.

personally see to it

Underscores the personal involvement and attention given to a task.

become proactive

Focuses on acting in advance to deal with an expected difficulty.

govern the circumstances

Implies a high degree of control and influence over events.

FAQs

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

You can use "take matters" when someone decides to directly handle a situation. For example, "Seeing the company's inaction, she decided to "take matters into her own hands" and resolve the issue herself".

What's a more formal alternative to "take matters"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "assume responsibility", "address the issue", or "handle the situation" as alternatives to "take matters".

When is it appropriate to use "take matters into your own hands"?

It is appropriate when established methods are failing or inadequate. It implies direct and personal intervention is necessary to achieve a desired outcome.

What does it mean to "take matters into your own hands"?

It means to personally intervene and deal with a situation, rather than relying on others or waiting for an official process. This often suggests a sense of urgency or dissatisfaction with existing approaches.