takes hold of

USAGE SUMMARY

"takes hold of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a phrasal verb to mean that someone or something takes control or possession of something. For example: "The idea quickly took hold of the community and spread rapidly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

She takes hold of his hands.

The New Yorker

And nothing in it takes hold of us emotionally.

The New Yorker

Then he takes hold of his son to say goodbye.

The New York Times - Magazine

He stands, takes hold of my hand, and we walk.

The Guardian

This is where Dynamic Manufacturing takes hold of the imagination.

Harvard Business Review

As Jacqueline's past and present narratives unfold, a hushed stasis takes hold of the novel.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Today, they take hold of the camera".

The New Yorker

She took hold of my hand.

The New Yorker

Apprehension took hold of the city.

The New Yorker

They take hold of me.

The New York Times

An idea took hold of her.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes hold of" to describe the moment something establishes dominance or control. For example, "Panic took hold of the crowd as the fire spread."

Common error

Ensure the verb tense aligns with the context. Avoid using "take hold of" when the context requires a past tense form like "took hold of" or a future tense like "will take hold of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes hold of" functions as a phrasal verb, typically used to indicate the beginning of control, influence, or dominance. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Examples show it used to describe emotions, ideas, and even diseases.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "takes hold of" is a versatile phrasal verb indicating the commencement of control or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It's grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in News & Media, as highlighted by the examples. When writing, remember to use the correct verb tense and consider alternatives such as "gains control of" or "establishes dominance over" to diversify your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gains control of

Emphasizes the act of acquiring control, often suggesting a process or struggle.

establishes dominance over

Highlights the creation of a dominant position or influence.

assumes command of

Suggests a formal or authoritative assumption of control.

seizes possession of

Focuses on the act of taking physical or legal ownership.

exerts influence over

Highlights the application of power or persuasion.

acquires power over

Focuses on gaining authority or control.

gets a grip on

An informal expression indicating understanding or control over a situation.

becomes dominant in

Emphasizes the achievement of a leading or prevailing position.

starts to influence

Indicates the beginning of having an effect on someone or something.

begins to control

Suggests the initiation of control or regulation.

FAQs

How can I use "takes hold of" in a sentence?

Use "takes hold of" to describe when something begins to have control or influence. For example, "As the storm intensified, fear "took hold of" the coastal residents".

What are some alternatives to "takes hold of"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases such as "gains control of", "establishes dominance over", or "assumes command of".

Is it better to use "takes hold of" or "take hold of"?

"Takes hold of" is used when referring to a singular subject in the present tense, while "take hold of" is used for plural subjects or in the imperative form. For example, "The trend takes hold quickly" versus "Let new ideas take hold".

What's the difference between "takes hold of" and "affects"?

"Takes hold of" implies control or dominance, while "affects" simply means to have an impact. "Grief took hold of her" suggests it controlled her, while "The news affected her" just means it had an impact.