taking her place

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking her place" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone assuming a role or position that another person previously held. Example: "After her departure, I found myself taking her place in the project team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Morris, taking her place, tells her what is going on in her mind.

The New Yorker

Nick Jonas fans, however, ought to be delighted to hear that he'll be taking her place.

The Guardian - Music

As soon as you see her, it's impossible to imagine anyone else taking her place.

The Guardian

For the last song, though, Ms. Rose swapped places with the drummer, taking her place behind the kit.

The New York Times

But instead of taking her place at UCL, Rose embarked on an education of a different kind.

Independent

She downgraded her from a starter to a substitute on the Olympic roster with Shannon Boxx taking her place.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Another driver took her place.

The New York Times

Mario Vivar takes her place.

The New York Times - Food

He took her place.

The Guardian

Ümmiye took her place.

The New Yorker

She took her place, front and center.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking her place" to clearly indicate the succession or substitution of one person by another in a specific role or context. Ensure the sentence provides enough context to understand the nature of the role and the reason for the change.

Common error

Avoid using "taking her place" when the context implies a different kind of action, such as merely assisting or collaborating, rather than a complete substitution. Be certain that the individual is fully assuming the prior role and associated responsibilities. Consider alternatives like "assisting her" or "collaborating with her" when the action is not a complete replacement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking her place" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a noun within a sentence. It typically describes the action of one person assuming the role, position, or duties previously held by another. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "taking her place" is a versatile gerund phrase used to denote the act of assuming a role or position previously held by a female individual. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, the specific level of formality can vary depending on the surrounding language. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a complete substitution and that the context is clear. For scenarios where a more nuanced meaning is needed, consider alternatives such as "replacing her" or "succeeding her".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

replacing her

Focuses directly on the act of substitution.

succeeding her

Emphasizes the aspect of coming after someone in a role or position.

assuming her position

Highlights the act of taking over a specific job or rank.

stepping into her shoes

An idiomatic expression implying filling someone's role and responsibilities.

filling her role

Directly refers to occupying a specific function or duty.

taking over from her

Implies assuming control or responsibility from someone.

inheriting her responsibilities

Highlights the aspect of receiving duties or tasks from someone.

substituting for her

Focuses on the act of temporarily replacing someone.

acting in her stead

A formal way of saying to act as a substitute.

following in her footsteps

Suggests emulating or continuing someone's work or legacy.

FAQs

What does "taking her place" mean?

The phrase "taking her place" signifies assuming the role, position, or responsibilities previously held by a female individual. It implies a substitution or succession in a particular context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "taking her place"?

It is appropriate to use "taking her place" when someone is fully replacing another person in a role, position, or duty. Ensure the context is clear and the substitution is complete. Otherwise consider "replacing her".

What are some alternatives to "taking her place"?

Alternatives include "succeeding her", "assuming her position", or "stepping into her shoes". The best alternative depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "taking her place" formal or informal?

"Taking her place" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, consider the specific situation and audience to ensure it is appropriate. In some cases, more formal alternatives like "acting in her stead" might be preferred.