take the stage

USAGE SUMMARY

'take the stage' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to say that someone has come onto a stage and is performing or giving a speech. For example: The students nervously took the stage and began their presentation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Entertainment

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Two actresses take the stage.

The Economist

Others will take the stage.

The Economist

Show" each time they take the stage.

The New York Times - Arts

"I tend to take the stage.

The New York Times

Then the headliners take the stage.

The Guardian - Travel

She felt her look rather apropos to take the stage.

The New York Times

Now can we please let someone else take the stage?

The Guardian - Opinion

The question is which Ron Sims will take the stage.

The New York Times

The candidates are set to take the stage.

The Guardian

Portico Quartet take the stage for the last half-hour.

The Guardian - Music

Should Papa John take the stage before or after Omarosa?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take the stage" to vividly describe the moment someone begins performing or presenting. It adds a sense of drama and anticipation to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "take the stage" in contexts where a literal stage isn't involved. Overusing it in metaphorical situations can sound unnatural. Be sure the situation logically connects to the idea of performing or presenting something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take the stage" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of going onto a stage to perform or present. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. Examples show its use across various media to describe performers, speakers, and even political candidates.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Arts

15%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take the stage" is a versatile and commonly used expression that describes the action of commencing a performance or presentation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as arts and entertainment. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, careful attention to the context is essential to avoid overusing it metaphorically. By considering alternatives such as "go onstage" or "step into the spotlight", writers can add nuance and precision to their writing. Its high frequency and presence across reputable sources underscore its widespread acceptance and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go onstage

Focuses specifically on the physical action of going onto the stage.

appear on stage

Emphasizes the act of becoming visible on the stage.

step into the spotlight

Highlights the transition to being the center of attention.

assume a leading role

Shifts the focus to taking on a prominent position, not necessarily on a physical stage.

rise to prominence

Emphasizes gaining importance or fame.

make an appearance

General term for showing up or being present, with less emphasis on performance.

grace the stage

Implies elegance and skill in the performance.

dominate the scene

Suggests a powerful and commanding presence.

open the show

Specific to beginning a performance or event.

launch one's career

Implies starting a professional path, often with public performances.

FAQs

How can I use "take the stage" in a sentence?

You can use "take the stage" to describe someone beginning a performance or presentation, such as: "After the introduction, the guest speaker "took the stage" to discuss climate change".

What does it mean to "take the stage"?

"Take the stage" means to come onto a stage or platform to perform, speak, or present something to an audience. It often implies a moment of significance or importance.

What are some alternatives to saying "take the stage"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "take the stage" include "go onstage", "step into the spotlight", or "make an appearance".

Is it appropriate to use "take the stage" in formal writing?

Yes, "take the stage" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing events, performances, or presentations. However, consider whether a more precise term might be suitable depending on the context.