take on many forms

USAGE SUMMARY

'take on many forms' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe how something can exist in a variety of forms. For example: "The expression of emotion can take on many forms - from verbal outbursts to subtle changes in body language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

But there is a formula to this favorite meal, one that allows the result to take on many forms.

The Washington Post

When one's back is to the political wall, courage can take on many forms, but Mr. Romney's "defense" of Mormonism was sadly but predictably lacking that courage.

The New York Times

This type of abuse can take on many forms.

Columbia University

Stalagmites also take on many forms, from slender broom-handle to mound- and pagoda-like shapes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is all right, though, because his work can take on many forms.

The New York Times

Altruistic behaviors can take on many forms, even among non-human animals.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

After blaming myself, I realized that I should be thankful that she opened the door to this conversation and for every patient after her, I would ask the tough question: "Do you think you have an eating disorder?" The story of women loathing themselves is not a new one and often takes on many forms and faces.

Huffington Post

Over the years, Mark E Smith's words have taken on many forms, from intricate, otherwordly science-fiction short stories to barmy one-liners, but this is a brilliant early example of his withering observational style.

The Guardian - Music

The fund-raising last year took on many forms.

The New York Times - Sports

The repair/regeneration of skin using tissue engineering has taken on many forms from simple to complex.

Principles of Tissue Engineering

Discrimination in UK workplaces takes on many forms – such as unequal pay, being sent home from work, missing out on jobs or being let go.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "take on many forms", ensure the context clearly indicates what is adapting or changing its form. For example, "Creativity can take on many forms, from painting to writing."

Common error

Avoid using "take on many forms" without a clear subject. Ensure it's evident what is doing the 'taking on' to prevent ambiguity. For example, instead of "It can take on many forms", specify "The problem can take on many forms".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take on many forms" functions as a predicate describing the attribute or characteristic of a subject. It indicates that the subject is capable of appearing or existing in a multitude of different ways or manifestations. Ludwig shows many examples of its usage across different domains.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take on many forms" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to describe the diverse manifestations of a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various writing contexts, primarily appearing in news, academic, and scientific sources. To use it effectively, ensure a clear subject and context to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternatives like "manifest in various ways" for nuanced expression. The phrase functions as predicate, emphasizing the adaptability and multifaceted nature of the subject, while maintaining a neutral register.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manifest in various ways

Focuses on the different manners something can manifest or become apparent.

present itself in diverse manners

Emphasizes the varied ways something can present or show itself.

exhibit a range of appearances

Highlights the different visual forms or displays something can have.

assume a multitude of guises

Suggests the adoption of different outward appearances, often implying deception or disguise.

come in diverse shapes

Specifically refers to the variety of physical shapes something can have.

exist in various iterations

Focuses on different versions or instances of something.

appear in numerous versions

Similar to iterations, but emphasizes the act of appearing or becoming visible.

display a spectrum of forms

Highlights the wide range of forms, implying a continuous sequence or variety.

be expressed in multiple ways

Focuses on the different means through which something can be communicated or shown.

show a variety of facets

Implies that something has many aspects or angles to it, each presenting a different form.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "takes on many forms"?

When something "takes on many forms", it means that it can manifest or appear in a variety of different ways, shapes, or expressions. It indicates adaptability and diversity in its presentation.

How can I use "take on many forms" in a sentence?

You can use "take on many forms" to describe how something can change or adapt. For example, "The symptoms of stress can take on many forms, including headaches, fatigue, and irritability."

What are some alternative phrases to "take on many forms"?

Some alternative phrases you can use instead of "take on many forms" include "manifest in various ways", "present itself in diverse manners", or "exhibit a range of appearances". Depending on the context, these might be more appropriate.

Is it correct to say "takes on many forms" or "take on many forms"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "takes on many forms" when the subject is singular (e.g., "The illness takes on many forms"). Use "take on many forms" when the subject is plural (e.g., "The symptoms take on many forms").