take over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take over" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase as a verb to mean "to gain control of something or someone; to succeed someone in a position of power". For example: "The new CEO plans to take over the company in June."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

I can take over".

The New Yorker

Who will take over?

Forbes

"Guys, we can take over!

Independent

Plastic and colors take over".

The New York Times - Books

Might the army take over?

The Economist

"Take over Mars.

The New York Times

Dallas take over!

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Take over-the-counter derivatives.

The New York Times

Take over-the-counter NSAIDs.

WikiHow

Take over-the-counter medications.

WikiHow

Take over-the-counter analgesics.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take over" in business contexts, clarify whether it refers to assuming control of a company or simply taking on additional responsibilities. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "take over" when you mean to gradually influence or contribute to something; "take over" implies a more complete and immediate shift in control or responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "take over" functions primarily as a verb of action, indicating the assumption of control, responsibility, or succession. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in contexts ranging from business acquisitions to temporary replacements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "take over" is a versatile term used to describe assuming control, responsibility, or providing temporary relief. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain professional settings. Remember to consider the scope of the action and whether it implies a complete change in control or a gradual influence to avoid misinterpretations. Examples from Ludwig, as well as other linguistic resources show that in everyday writing and communication this phrase is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assume control

Focuses on the act of gaining command or authority.

seize power

Emphasizes a forceful or abrupt acquisition of control.

take charge

Highlights the act of assuming responsibility and leadership.

succeed to

Indicates a formal or rightful transition of power or position.

relieve someone

Refers to temporarily replacing someone in their duties.

step in

Implies intervening to assume responsibility, often in a temporary or urgent situation.

supersede

Suggests replacing something established with something newer or more effective.

usurp

Implies wrongfully or illegally seizing control.

acquire

Focuses on gaining possession or ownership, often in a business context.

fill in

Indicates temporarily performing someone else's duties.

FAQs

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

You can use "take over" to describe assuming control of something, like "The company plans to "take over" its competitor", or to temporarily relieve someone, such as "Can you "take over" driving for a while?".

What are some alternatives to "take over"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "assume control", "take charge", "succeed to", or "relieve someone".

When is it appropriate to use "take over" instead of "manage"?

"Take over" implies gaining control or responsibility, often replacing someone or something else. "Manage", on the other hand, suggests overseeing or directing existing operations without necessarily displacing anyone. If the change involves replacing who did things before use ""take over"", if is a matter of managing an organization already in place use manage.

Is "take over" formal or informal language?

"Take over" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives like "assume responsibility" might be preferred in certain professional settings.