takes off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'takes off' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used as an expression meaning to start or leave quickly, or to become successful. For example: The party really took off when the DJ started playing everyone's favourite songs.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Plane takes off.

The New York Times

Siegfried promptly takes off.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Then he takes off again.

The New Yorker

It takes off just fine.

The New York Times

The plane takes off.

The Guardian

"Wrinkle" then takes off.

The New York Times - Books

The lady takes off.

The New York Times

Airport technology takes off.

The Guardian

When people see that, it takes off.

The New York Times

Cover deep and he takes off.

The New York Times

"Brazil takes off," the headline said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "takes off" to describe a business or idea, ensure the context clearly indicates growth and success. For example: 'The new marketing campaign really "takes off" once the social media ads started running.'

Common error

Avoid using "takes off" in contexts where a literal interpretation (e.g., removing clothing) could be misunderstood. Be specific if you mean something other than a plane departing or a venture succeeding.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "takes off" primarily functions as a verb indicating the commencement of a journey (like a plane) or the sudden increase in success or popularity of something, as exemplified by Ludwig's examples of planes taking off or careers taking off. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Academia

6%

Science

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "takes off" is widely used and considered grammatically correct. It is most frequently encountered in news and media, denoting either a literal departure (such as an airplane) or a figurative surge in popularity or success. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure context prevents misinterpretations of its literal versus figurative applications. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various communications, from formal reports to casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departs

Focuses on the act of leaving or starting a journey.

takes flight

Similar to "lifts off" but can be used metaphorically for new endeavors.

lifts off

Emphasizes the action of rising from the ground, typically for aircraft.

starts quickly

Highlights the speed and suddenness of the beginning.

begins to ascend

Specifically refers to upward movement, often in the context of flight.

gains momentum

Describes a gradual increase in speed or force.

becomes successful

Shifts the meaning to achieving success or popularity.

makes headway

Implies progress is being made, particularly after a slow start.

gets going

An informal way of saying something is starting to progress.

springs up

Suggests a sudden and unexpected emergence.

FAQs

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

You can use "takes off" to describe an airplane leaving the ground, such as: 'The plane "takes off" at 7:00 AM'. It can also mean something is rapidly gaining popularity or success, for example: 'Her career really "takes off" after she won the award'.

What does "takes off" mean in business?

In a business context, "takes off" means something, like a product or marketing campaign, is becoming very successful and gaining popularity quickly. An example is: 'The new product line really "gains momentum" and "takes off" after the initial marketing push'.

What are some synonyms for "takes off" when referring to a flight?

When referring to a flight, you can use synonyms such as "departs", "lifts off", or "begins to ascend". For example: 'The plane "departs" on time'.

What's the difference between "takes off" and "takes flight"?

"Takes off" is a more common and general term, while "takes flight" is often used in a more metaphorical or literary sense. Both can refer to the literal action of an aircraft leaving the ground, but "takes flight" often implies a new beginning or venture.