take root

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take root" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when something has become established or firmly held in mind, such as a belief or habit. For example, "My grandmother's values have taken root in me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it will take root".

The New York Times

Democracy has failed to take root.

The New York Times - Magazine

You, me, we make him take root".

The New York Times - Books

There they can germinate and take root.

Britannica

How might such an idea take root?

MIT Technology Review

Soccer culture started to take root.

The New York Times - Sports

A new, democratic aesthetic began to take root.

The New York Times

Fine dining has been slow to take root here.

The New York Times - Travel

A green consciousness is beginning to take root in Hawaii.

The New York Times

Nationalism, populism and protectionism threatened to take root, it warned.

The Guardian - Opinion

But until recently, it was slow to take root.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take root" to describe the establishment of abstract concepts such as ideas, beliefs, or practices, not just literal plants growing roots.

Common error

Avoid using "take root" when you're actually describing planting or transplanting. It's best suited for metaphorical or abstract establishment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take root" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating the action of becoming established or firmly fixed. Ludwig's examples show its usage across various contexts, signifying the establishment of ideas, systems, or physical roots.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Wiki

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take root" is a versatile verb phrase that describes the process of becoming established or ingrained. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, from news and media to academic and informal writing. The phrase is best used to describe the establishment of abstract concepts, ideas, or practices rather than literal planting, suggesting a deeper, more organic growth. While alternatives like "become established" or "gain traction" exist, "take root" often implies a more profound and lasting impact. Its frequent use in authoritative sources underscores its reliability and broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put down roots

Uses a more literal, less abstract image of establishing oneself.

become established

Focuses on the outcome of becoming stable and recognized.

become ingrained

Stresses the deep and lasting nature of something becoming a part of something else.

firmly establish itself

Adds intensity to the idea of becoming stable and secure.

become fixed

Highlights the immutability and permanence of the establishment.

gain traction

Emphasizes increasing popularity or acceptance.

gain a foothold

Highlights the initial stage of establishing a presence or influence.

gain currency

Indicates widespread acceptance or adoption.

begin to flourish

Suggests growth and development after establishment.

settle in

Implies adaptation and comfort in a new environment.

FAQs

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

You can use "take root" to describe how ideas, customs, or beliefs become established, for example: "Democracy failed to "take root" in the country after the revolution".

What does it mean for an idea to "take root"?

When an idea "takes root", it means that it becomes established or widely accepted. It suggests the idea is starting to influence people's thoughts and actions.

Which is more appropriate, "take root" or "become established"?

"Take root" and "become established" are often interchangeable, but "take root" often carries a sense of deeper, more organic growth and integration. "Become established" is more generic.

What are some phrases similar to "take root"?

Similar phrases include "gain traction", "gain a foothold", or "become ingrained", each with slightly different nuances of meaning.