takes up

USAGE SUMMARY

"takes up" is a perfectly acceptable and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something that occupies a certain amount of space or time. For example: "This project will take up a lot of my energy and focus over the coming months."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Takes up with"?

The New Yorker

It takes up space.

The Guardian

"It only takes up two extra characters".

The New York Times

Jostein Gaarder takes up his own story.

Independent

Takes up a lot of time".

Independent

The narrator takes up sketching portraits.

The New Yorker

It takes up a lot of resources.

The New York Times

Mr. Douglas takes up the thread.

The New York Times

It takes up all their time.

The New Yorker

"It takes up too much time.

Independent

A stone fireplace takes up one wall.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes up" to describe how time or resources are used, indicating consumption or allocation. For example: "This project takes up a significant amount of our budget."

Common error

Avoid using "takes up" with abstract nouns when a more specific verb is needed. Instead of saying 'The issue takes up importance', say 'The issue gains importance' or 'The issue becomes important'.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "takes up" functions primarily to describe the occupation of space, time, or resources. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely acceptable and usable, indicating that something is utilizing or filling a particular area or period.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "takes up" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe the occupation of space, time, or resources. Ludwig AI confirms its general acceptability. It's appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news articles to scientific papers, although more precise synonyms may be preferable in very formal writing. While the phrase itself doesn't carry significant formality, it's crucial to use it accurately. Avoid overusing it with abstract nouns and using other alternatives when appropriate to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

occupies

This alternative focuses on the physical space or position filled.

consumes

This alternative highlights the use of resources, especially time or energy.

fills

This suggests completely using available space or time.

assumes

This refers to taking on a responsibility or role.

undertakes

This alternative suggests starting or engaging in a task or project.

embarks on

Similar to 'undertakes', this emphasizes the beginning of a journey or endeavor.

engages in

This alternative highlights active participation or involvement.

devotes time to

This emphasizes dedicating time and effort to something.

dedicates resources to

Similar to the previous one, but puts more emphasis on resources rather than time.

launches into

Focuses on beginning something with enthusiasm or force.

FAQs

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

"Takes up" can be used to describe something that occupies space, time, or resources. For example, "The new desk "takes up" a lot of room", or "This project "takes up" most of my time".

What are some alternatives to "takes up"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "occupies", "consumes", or "assumes". For instance, instead of "It "takes up" a lot of space", you could say "It occupies a lot of space".

When is it appropriate to use "takes up" instead of "occupies"?

"Takes up" often implies a more active or consuming nature of occupying space or time, while "occupies" is more neutral. "Takes up" is best when describing something using available resources, while "occupies" simply describes the space something inhabits. For example, "The meeting "takes up" two hours", versus "The protesters occupy the square".

Is "takes up" formal or informal?

"Takes up" is generally considered neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might choose a more precise synonym like "consumes" or "utilizes" depending on the context.