take some time

USAGE SUMMARY

'take some time' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to suggest that someone devotes time to something or takes a break from something. Example sentence: Since the project is complex, it will take some time to complete.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That may take some time.

The Economist

"It may take some time".

The New York Times

This could take some time.

The New York Times

Some will take some time.

The New York Times

"Replacing Clarence would take some time".

The New York Times

But that could take some time.

The Economist

But that will take some time.

The New York Times

Take some time to think, he counsels.

The New York Times

It is going to take some time".

Independent

It'll take some time to end".

The Guardian

Breathing Take some time out and breathe.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take some time" when you want to suggest a thoughtful approach or to avoid rushing a process. For example, "Take some time to review the documents before signing them."

Common error

While "take some time" is versatile, avoid using it in very short or informal exchanges where it can sound unnecessarily prolonged or indirect. Opt for more immediate expressions when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take some time" functions as an idiomatic expression used to advise or suggest allocating time for a specific activity or allowing a process to unfold. As Ludwig AI suggests, it indicates dedicating time to something or taking a break. Examples show its broad applicability across diverse situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

59%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

9%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take some time" is a versatile and common expression used to suggest dedicating time to something, allowing a process to unfold, or advising patience. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in many contexts. It finds frequent use in news, media, and informal settings, offering suggestions for thoughtful action or requesting for a break from a complicated action. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives may be suitable in highly professional or academic environments. From the multiple examples provided, the primary aim is to encourage users to consider the duration or allocation of time as an essential factor in various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it will take time

Similar in structure to the original phrase, but adding 'it will' to soften it.

give it some time

This alternative focus more on the process, indicating that a certain amount of time must pass before the desired result is achieved.

set aside time

Similar to allocate time, but it emphasize the act of making time available.

make time

Similar to find the time, suggesting an effort to create availability.

allocate time

This focuses on purposefully setting aside time for a specific task.

dedicate time

Focuses on committing time for a specific purpose or person.

allow sufficient time

This emphasizes that enough time should be given to some activity.

invest time

Frames time as a resource that can be used to improve a skill or complete a project.

require time

This emphasizes that something needs certain duration to be performed well.

find the time

Focuses on the difficulty of allocating time, indicating a need to prioritize.

FAQs

How can I use "take some time" in a sentence?

You can use "take some time" to suggest someone dedicate time to something (e.g., "Take some time to relax") or to indicate that a process will require a certain duration (e.g., "It will take some time to complete the project").

What's a more formal alternative to "take some time"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "allocate time", "dedicate time", or "allot time" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it correct to say "took some time" instead of "take some time"?

Yes, "took some time" is the past tense of "take some time". For example, "I took some time to consider your offer" indicates you considered it in the past.

What's the difference between "give it some time" and "take some time"?

"Give it some time" typically implies that a situation or process needs time to develop or resolve naturally, whereas "take some time" suggests actively using time for a specific purpose or task.