takes charge

USAGE SUMMARY

"takes charge" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe someone assuming control or leadership in a situation. Example: After the manager resigned, Sarah took charge of the project and successfully led the team to completion.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Adam takes charge, flanked by his bandmates.

University of California, Berkeley

"He's someone who's aggressive and takes charge.

The New York Times

That's why she takes charge in "Chicago".

The New York Times

He takes charge on weekends when she is at Clementine.

The New York Times

Prologue steps back, and Mr. Condon takes charge.

The New York Times

He takes charge, and he's an outstanding receiver.

The New York Times - Sports

There may be no substitute for someone who takes charge.

The New York Times - Food

No longer an Interim Director, Roy Caldwell takes charge.

University of California, Berkeley

Daisy Goldschmid, 28, takes charge of propagating the tender perennials.

The New York Times

Whoever takes charge, however, will have huge shoes to fill.

The Guardian - Sport

Salman takes charge amid an array of challenges.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes charge" when you want to emphasize someone's proactive role in leading or managing a situation effectively. It highlights initiative and control.

Common error

Avoid using "takes charge" when describing situations where leadership is circumstantial or passively received. The phrase implies intentional action, not accidental delegation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes charge" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of assuming control or leadership. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. The examples illustrate someone actively stepping into a leadership role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

14%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "takes charge" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe someone assuming control or leadership. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively communicates the action of actively stepping into a position of authority. Its neutral register and frequent usage in news and media outlets, as well as academic and business contexts, highlight its versatility. Related phrases include "assumes control" and "takes command", each offering slightly different nuances. When using "takes charge", ensure that it accurately reflects an intentional action of assuming leadership, as misusing it in passive contexts can lead to inaccuracies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assumes control

Focuses on the act of gaining control, omitting the proactive initiation implied by "takes charge".

assumes command

Implies a more formal or hierarchical context, often related to military or organizational leadership.

takes command

Similar to "assumes command" but with the direct action of seizing authority at the forefront.

takes the reins

Suggests guiding or directing something, often an organization or project, with a focus on control.

takes the helm

This emphasizes the role of leadership in a ship or organization, steering it forward.

steps up to lead

Highlights the act of volunteering or accepting a leadership role, with an emphasis on initiative.

asserts control

Focuses on the act of firmly establishing control over a situation or group.

seizes authority

Emphasizes the act of grabbing or taking control, often implying a more forceful or assertive action.

becomes the leader

Highlights the result of someone assuming a leadership position.

dictates action

Implies strong and directive leadership, focusing on decision-making and command.

FAQs

How can I use "takes charge" in a sentence?

You can use "takes charge" to describe someone who assumes control and responsibility in a situation. For example: "After the manager left, she "takes charge" of the team and guided them to success."

What are some alternatives to "takes charge"?

Alternatives include "assumes control", "takes command", or "steps up to lead", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "took charge" instead of "takes charge"?

Yes, "took charge" is the past tense form of ""takes charge"" and is used to describe an action that happened in the past.

What's the difference between "takes charge" and "is in charge"?

"Takes charge" implies an active assumption of control, while "is in charge" simply denotes a position of authority or responsibility.