takes over

USAGE SUMMARY

"takes over" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a verb phrase that is often used in the present simple tense to indicate that someone or something has assumed control or authority. For example, "When the new CEO took over, the company launched a new strategic plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The adrenalin takes over".

Independent

Desperation takes over".

The Guardian

It just takes over Daytona.

Independent

It takes over your life!

The Economist

Greece takes over EU presidency.

The Guardian

It takes over, I think.

The New Yorker

Who takes over the business?

The New York Times

It takes over everything.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Your instinct takes over".

The New York Times

"Water takes over".

The New York Times - Arts

"Intense competition takes over".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes over" to clearly indicate a transfer of control, responsibility, or influence from one entity to another. Ensure the context makes clear who or what is relinquishing control and who or what is gaining it.

Common error

Avoid using "takes over" interchangeably with verbs like "influences" or "affects" when the intention is not a complete transfer of control. "Takes over" implies a more complete and direct change in authority or responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "takes over" functions as a verb phrase, typically used in the third-person singular present tense. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it expressing the act of assuming control, responsibility, or dominance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the verb phrase "takes over" is grammatically sound and commonly used to denote a transition of control, responsibility, or influence. According to Ludwig AI, it's deemed correct for written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its register is neutral, suitable for various scenarios where a shift in power dynamics needs to be articulated. When using "takes over", ensure clarity regarding the entities involved in the transition and avoid confusing it with verbs implying partial influence rather than complete control.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assumes control

Focuses specifically on gaining control, emphasizing authority.

gains dominance

Highlights the act of becoming the most powerful or influential.

supersedes

Implies replacement, where something new takes the place of something older.

replaces

Directly indicates the act of substituting one thing for another.

ascends to power

Emphasizes a rise in authority or leadership.

assumes responsibility

Highlights accepting duties or obligations.

seizes command

Suggests a forceful acquisition of control.

usurps

Conveys taking power illegally or by force.

comes into effect

Suggests the start of something being operative or valid.

steps into the role

Highlights transitioning into a new position or duty.

FAQs

How to use "takes over" in a sentence?

"Takes over" indicates a transfer of control or responsibility. For instance, "The new manager "takes over" the department next week" or "During the storm, fear "takes over"".

What can I say instead of "takes over"?

Alternatives to "takes over" include "assumes control", "gains dominance", or "replaces", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "will take over" instead of "takes over"?

Yes, "will take over" is grammatically correct and indicates a future action. "Takes over" usually refers to a present or habitual action, while "will take over" refers to a future event.

What's the difference between "takes over" and "influences"?

"Takes over" implies a complete transfer of control or responsibility, whereas "influences" suggests having an effect on something without necessarily controlling it. It's a matter of degree and the extent of change.