taking a while

USAGE SUMMARY

"taking a while" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase can be used to describe something that is taking longer than expected or when you want to express that something is taking a considerable amount of time. For example, "I'm sorry it's taking a while to get your order ready."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

This is taking a while.

The New York Times

It's taking a while to mend".

The New York Times

It's taking a while.

The Washington Post

Technology is taking a while to disrupt higher education.

The Economist

It's taking a while to produce any new information, though.

The Guardian

It's taking a while" Never a truer word said.

The Guardian - Tech

Rick: Alexis is taking a while, isn't she?

The New Yorker

So far, though, it is taking a while for all the new pieces to fit.

The New York Times - Sports

Those new dentures were taking a while to get used to".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This took a while.

The New York Times

It still took a while.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "taking a while", consider the context. It's generally suitable for informal and neutral situations. For formal settings, you might prefer alternatives like "requiring considerable time" or "demanding significant time".

Common error

While "taking a while" is widely understood, overuse in formal writing can make your work sound less professional. Replace it with phrases that convey a similar meaning but are more appropriate for the tone, such as "requiring considerable time".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking a while" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating that an action or process is extending over a longer period than anticipated. Ludwig's examples show its usage in describing various situations, from waiting for pizza to the economy recovering.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "taking a while" is a common and acceptable phrase used to describe something that is lasting longer than expected. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's best suited for informal and neutral situations. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "requiring considerable time". Being mindful of the tone and context will ensure effective communication. With 61 examples demonstrating usage, "taking a while" is a readily understandable phrase in everyday conversation and writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not happening quickly

A straightforward way of saying something is slow.

requiring considerable time

Emphasizes the amount of time needed, framing it as a requirement.

demanding significant time

Highlights that the activity is time-intensive and requires a notable commitment.

progressing slowly

Focuses on the pace of the activity, indicating it's not moving quickly.

dragging on

Implies something is becoming tedious or tiresome because it's taking too long.

proceeding at a snail's pace

Uses an idiom to stress the slowness of the progress.

protracted

Indicates that something is lasting longer than usual or expected.

extending

Highlights the expansion of time beyond an expected duration.

delayed

Focuses on the postponement of completion, emphasizing something not being on schedule.

lingering

Suggests something is continuing or staying present longer than desired.

FAQs

How can I use "taking a while" in a sentence?

"Taking a while" is typically used to describe a process or action that is taking longer than expected. For example, "The delivery is "taking a while", I should call to check on it."

What can I say instead of "taking a while"?

You can use alternatives like "requiring considerable time", "progressing slowly", or "demanding significant time" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "taking a while"?

"Taking a while" is appropriate in informal or neutral contexts. It's best to avoid it in formal writing or professional communications, where more precise or formal language is expected.

What's the difference between "taking a while" and "taking some time"?

The phrases are very similar, but "taking some time" can sometimes imply that the duration is necessary or expected, whereas "taking a while" might suggest it's longer than desired. The nuance is subtle and often interchangeable.