taking it well

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking it well" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's positive or resilient reaction to a difficult situation or news. Example: "Despite the challenges, she is taking it well and remains optimistic about the future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

I looked out at the crowd to see if they were taking it well, but couldn't read a clear response.

Cornell University

Naturally, by 7 30 p.m. no one had arrived (what kind of social nitwit would come at 6 30?) and my husband was not taking it well.

The New York Times

This has happened before, but on Thursday, Mr. Mysak, a 62-year-old classics-quoting disbarred lawyer with an ever-present cigar, was not taking it well.

The New York Times

"So, it was just a lot to take in and I wasn't taking it well, but I kept doing it anyway".

The Guardian

I'm taking it well because it's Edinburgh and Edinburgh is chaos, but my first few shows trying to remember an hour of standup, my God!

The Guardian

Putting that to the side, and you're actually really good at this, are reasonably good at this, and nobody's taking it well.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

"They took it well.

Independent

She took it well.

The New York Times

Her mother took it well.

The New York Times

"We took it well.

The Guardian - Sport

He took it well.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking it well" to highlight someone's positive reaction to adversity. This shows appreciation for their emotional strength and resilience.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse genuine resilience with a lack of emotional response. "Taking it well" should reflect a healthy coping mechanism, not a suppression of feelings. Ensure the context suggests acceptance and adaptation, rather than indifference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking it well" functions as a commentary on someone's reaction or behavior in response to a particular event or situation. It indicates how well a person is coping or accepting something, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

6%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "taking it well" is a common phrase used to describe someone's positive or resilient reaction to a difficult situation. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and acceptable in various contexts. Its primary function is to express an opinion on someone's behavior, often implying approval of their ability to cope. While the phrase is mostly neutral, being aware of potential misinterpretations of stoicism is important. Consider alternatives like "handling the situation with grace" or "coping admirably" for different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

coping admirably

Highlights the positive effort and success in managing a difficult situation.

accepting the outcome with equanimity

Focuses on the person's calm acceptance of the result, especially if unfavorable.

handling the situation with grace

Emphasizes poise and composure in dealing with a challenge.

bearing up bravely

Emphasizes courage and fortitude in enduring hardship.

managing the setback effectively

Focuses on the ability to handle a negative event without significant negative impact.

responding maturely

Highlights the maturity and rationality of the response.

showing resilience in the face of adversity

Stresses the ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

demonstrating emotional strength

Highlights the inner fortitude and stability shown during a tough time.

maintaining a positive attitude

Highlights the person's ability to stay optimistic despite challenges.

keeping a stiff upper lip

Implies suppressing emotions and maintaining composure in a difficult situation, often associated with British stoicism.

FAQs

How can I use "taking it well" in a sentence?

You can use "taking it well" to describe someone's positive or resilient reaction to a difficult situation or news. For example: "Despite the challenges, she is taking it well and remains optimistic about the future."

What does it mean when someone is "taking it well"?

It means they are handling a difficult situation with composure, acceptance, and a positive attitude. It suggests they are not overly upset or negatively affected by the event.

What can I say instead of "taking it well"?

You can use alternatives like "coping admirably", "handling the situation with grace", or "managing the setback effectively" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "taking it well" formal or informal?

The phrase "taking it well" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both informal and professional contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in certain situations.