takes it by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "takes it by" is not standard in written English and may be unclear without context.
It could be used in informal contexts, but it is advisable to provide additional context for clarity. Example: "He takes it by the hand and leads her to the dance floor."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

When LeBron James takes over a playoff series, he takes it by the throat.

The New York Times

Yes, for a man who dislikes the concept of "quirk", Mills certainly takes it by the hand and gives it a friendly squeeze.

The Guardian - Film

Some actors take the stage by default; Shaw invariably takes it by storm and is unafraid to make bold choices and bare both body and soul.

The Guardian - Opinion

Removing it, she takes it by the base and, showing the head of Christ to the audience she kneels in front of Scarpia and places the crucifix on his chest.

The New Yorker

Robbie, trying to join the fight against the aliens, tries to leave with the U.S. military, and the three are forced to leave their car after a mob takes it by force.

Wikipedia

Sometimes, the opposite is depicted and we see the passive spouse who, feeling hopeless and trapped, merely "takes it" by robotically moving through their days while ignoring the knowledge of the betrayal.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Spain took it by force.

The New York Times

Venter to take it by a head.

The Guardian - Sport

Then Germans who took it by storm.

The Guardian - Books

At last he said, "Maybe somebody took it by mistake and throwed it away".

The New Yorker

I take it, by listening to you, that you don't regret a single day".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger, more precise verbs like 'seizes', 'grabs', or 'captures' if you need to convey a more forceful or decisive action.

Common error

Avoid using "takes it by" without a clear referent for 'it'. For example, instead of saying 'He takes it by', specify 'He takes the opportunity by the horns'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes it by" functions as a verb phrase expressing the act of seizing, controlling, or handling something in a particular manner. Examples provided by Ludwig illustrate various contexts, from taking something "by the throat" to "by the horns".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

21%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "takes it by" is an acceptable, though not extremely common, way to express seizing or handling something assertively. As Ludwig AI suggests, clarity is key when using this phrase. While grammatically sound, stronger verbs might sometimes be more precise. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts and has a neutral register. Consider clarity, conciseness, and alternative verbs to optimize your writing with "takes it by".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seizes it forcefully

Emphasizes a more aggressive action than simply "takes it by".

grabs hold of it

Suggests a quick and decisive action to secure something.

grasps it firmly

Focuses on the grip strength and determination in securing something.

secures it tightly

Focuses on making something safe and preventing it from being lost.

assumes control of it

Highlights the act of gaining authority or dominance over something.

takes command of it

Implies a leadership role and the act of directing something.

snatches it swiftly

Highlights the speed and abruptness of taking something.

claims it decisively

Emphasizes the act of asserting ownership or rights over something.

captures it completely

Indicates the full acquisition and possession of something.

procures it effectively

Suggests a successful acquisition through skill or effort.

FAQs

How can I use "takes it by" in a sentence?

You can use "takes it by" to describe someone seizing an opportunity or handling a situation assertively. For example, "She "takes it by the reins" and guides the team to success."

What are some alternatives to "takes it by"?

Some alternatives include "seizes it", "grasps it", or "assumes control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "takes it by" grammatically correct?

While not as common as some alternatives, "takes it by" is grammatically acceptable. However, according to Ludwig AI, it is advisable to provide additional context for clarity.

What's the difference between "takes it by" and "takes it with"?

"Takes it by" suggests a more forceful or assertive action, while "takes it with" implies accompanying or including something. The best choice depends on the context.