takes leave

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "takes leave" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone is formally departing from a place, often in a professional context, such as taking time off from work. Example: "After many years of dedicated service, she takes leave to pursue her personal interests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

This is where Winthorpe takes leave of conventional wisdom.

The Guardian - Opinion

This column takes leave of Paris tomorrow and instead of turkey we expect to eat cous-cous in Marrakesh, Morocco.

The New York Times

Toward the end of the film, Colonel Shute takes leave of General Sayar, with much hugging and moist eyes.

The New York Times

"So suddenly a volunteer takes leave from his military unit, and he ends up with an automatic rifle, in a tank, in some other country entirely?" he said.

The New Yorker

Strolling through the grounds of one property, Susila takes leave of Krishna to use an outhouse in a distant corner of the garden.

The New Yorker

Common sense takes leave of uncommon intelligence when, on the lam in Cambodia from Senate subcommittee hearings and civil-liberties lawsuits, West trades passports with a wealthy businessman who convinces him the swap will make all his troubles go away.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The girls take leave of their thongs.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

George Foreman took leave for almost 10 years.

The New York Times - Sports

No reason was given for his taking leave this time.

The Economist

His boss had given him permission to take leave.

The New Yorker

Marie and her camera, however, quickly take leave of reality.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes leave" to denote a formal or officially sanctioned absence, especially from work or duty. For instance, "The employee takes leave to care for a family member."

Common error

Avoid using "takes leave" for casual or unscheduled absences. It is more appropriate for planned and approved time off. Instead of "He takes leave to go to the store", use "He stepped out to go to the store".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "takes leave" is as a verb phrase. It describes the action of departing or going away, often in a formal or official context. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "takes leave" is a grammatically correct and relatively common verb phrase that signifies a formal or official departure or absence. As Ludwig AI states, it is usable in written English. The phrase is frequently found in News & Media. When writing, be sure to use "takes leave" for planned and approved absences, avoiding its use in informal contexts. Consider alternatives like "goes on leave" or "departs from" to fine-tune your message. This will ensure your message is precise and appropriate for the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

goes on leave

Focuses on the action of starting a period of absence.

departs from

Highlights the act of physically leaving or diverging from something.

absents oneself

Emphasizes the act of making oneself absent, often formally.

takes a break from

Indicates a temporary cessation of activity for rest or relaxation.

withdraws from

Suggests a more formal or permanent removal from involvement.

steps away from

Implies a temporary or short-term departure.

relinquishes duty

Highlights the act of giving up responsibilities or obligations.

ceases work

Focuses on the termination of work or employment.

is on vacation

Specifically indicates a period of rest and leisure.

is off work

Simply states that someone is not currently working.

FAQs

What does "takes leave" mean?

The phrase "takes leave" generally means to depart or go away, often implying a formal or authorized absence, such as from work or a duty. It suggests a planned or recognized period of being away.

What are some alternatives to "takes leave"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "goes on leave", "departs from", or "absents oneself". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I use "takes leave" in a sentence?

Use "takes leave" to indicate a formal departure or absence. For example: "The manager takes leave of her team before starting her sabbatical". Ensure the context is appropriate for a formal or officially recognized absence.

Is it correct to say "take leave" or "takes leave"?

"Take leave" is the base form, used with plural subjects and in the infinitive. "Takes leave" is the third-person singular present tense form, used when the subject is a singular noun or pronoun (he, she, it). For example, "I will take leave next month", but "She takes leave every summer".