take up positions

USAGE SUMMARY

"take up positions" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used in the context of military strategy; for example, you might say "The army took up defensive positions in preparation for the battle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He watched them take up positions and shoot.

The New York Times

The lookout sounded the alarm, and Menoyo ordered everyone to take up positions around the camp.

The New Yorker

The government sent armored vehicles to take up positions and keep order there.

The New York Times

Army troops and tanks take up positions here, creating a buffer zone between the two sides.

The New York Times

Police equipped with military gear take up positions in Ferguson, Mo.

Stanford University

Because, of course, it was dangerous to take up positions that might have to be defended.

The New York Times

The rebels take up positions in farmhouses scattered across the hillside and shoot at the police.

The New York Times

Reinforcements arrived to take up positions on the bridge as automatic gunfire sounded.

The New York Times

Then the men will take up positions to prevent people from escaping from the village.

The New Yorker

French special forces take up positions on the roof of surrounding buildings.

The Guardian

Their generosity had persuaded several of its top executives to take up positions with other banks.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing planned actions, use the phrase "take up positions" to clearly indicate the strategic placement of people or resources. For instance, "The troops will take up positions along the riverbank before dawn."

Common error

Avoid using "take up positions" when a passive construction is more appropriate. For instance, instead of "Positions were taken up by the soldiers," use "The soldiers took up positions" for a more direct and active voice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take up positions" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the action of assuming a specific location or arrangement, often for a strategic or defensive purpose. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take up positions" is a versatile phrasal verb that describes the action of strategically placing people or resources. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and frequently used, primarily in News & Media, Academia and Encyclopedias. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it’s best suited for contexts involving military tactics, strategic planning, or protest movements. Be mindful to avoid passive constructions and choose the active voice for clarity. Consider alternatives like "station themselves" or "move into position" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move into position

Focuses on the process of relocating to a strategic or designated area, almost identical in meaning.

occupy strategic points

Highlights that locations are seized for a precise tactical advantages.

station themselves

Focuses on the act of being placed in a location, often for a specific purpose.

get into formation

Specifically refers to arranging in a structured manner, usually in a military context.

set up defenses

Emphasizes the preparation for protection or resistance in a location.

assume a stance

Implies adopting a viewpoint or attitude, diverging from the physical placement aspect.

man the barricades

Suggests actively defending a position, usually against an opposing force.

establish a presence

Highlights the act of creating or solidifying a presence in a given area or field, broader than just physical location.

fill the ranks

Implies the joining of an organization in an available role.

enter the arena

Signifies entering a competition or conflict rather than occupying a physical space.

FAQs

How can I use "take up positions" in a sentence?

You can use "take up positions" to describe military units, sports teams, or even protestors. For example, "The soldiers "moved into position" near the border" or "The demonstrators "occupied strategic points" in the city center".

What are some alternatives to "take up positions"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "station themselves", "move into position", or "occupy strategic points".

Is it correct to say "positions were taken up" instead of "take up positions"?

While "positions were taken up" is grammatically correct, it's a passive construction. Using the active voice, "take up positions", is often more direct and preferable.

In what scenarios is "take up positions" most appropriate?

"Take up positions" is best suited for describing the act of strategically placing individuals or groups, particularly in military, tactical, or protest contexts. It implies a planned and deliberate arrangement.