taking the stage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking the stage" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone entering a stage in order to perform or speak. For example: The singer took the stage to a roar of applause from the audience.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Nervous?" he said upon taking the stage.

The New York Times

Senator Obama is taking the stage.

The New York Times

Magic Missile, it seems, will not be taking the stage.

The New York Times - Style

Phil Schiller, Apple's marketing chief, is taking the stage.

The New York Times

Shortly after taking the stage, he meandered through an anecdote about a former home.

The New York Times

Osborne's address was the economics equivalent of Joe Pasquale taking the stage after Bill Hicks.

The Guardian - Opinion

As Ms. Faithfull went into her encore, Ms. Taylor was taking the stage in Times Square.

The New York Times - Arts

Taking the stage is not what it used to be, especially in film.

The Guardian - Film

For a good 45 minutes after taking the stage, Opeth felt dull.

The New York Times - Arts

"The lure is watching celebrities humiliate themselves," he said, a minute before taking the stage.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Subban took the stage.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking the stage" to create a vivid image of someone beginning a performance or presentation. It suggests confidence and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "taking the stage" for everyday situations that don't involve a literal stage or performance setting. Instead, use more appropriate phrases for informal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking the stage" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used as part of a larger sentence structure. It describes the action of commencing a performance or presentation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "taking the stage" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the commencement of a performance or presentation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a valid and useful phrase in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, it carries a neutral tone and suggests a transition to an active, public role. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations involving an actual stage or performance setting to avoid misapplication. Consider alternatives like "stepping onto the platform" or "beginning the performance" based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stepping onto the platform

Focuses on the physical action of stepping onto a raised area.

beginning the performance

Highlights the start of an artistic performance.

commencing the presentation

Emphasizes the start of a formal presentation.

addressing the audience

Focuses on the act of speaking to an assembled group.

appearing before the crowd

Highlights the act of becoming visible to a large gathering.

assuming the podium

Implies taking control of a speaking platform.

opening the show

Refers specifically to starting a theatrical or musical event.

starting the act

General term for beginning a performance.

presenting oneself

A more formal way of saying appearing before an audience.

making an entrance

Emphasizes the style and manner of entering the stage.

FAQs

How can I use "taking the stage" in a sentence?

"Taking the stage" describes the action of someone beginning a performance or presentation. For example, "The band was nervous before "taking the stage"".

What are some alternatives to "taking the stage"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "stepping onto the platform", "beginning the performance", or "addressing the audience".

Is "taking the stage" formal or informal?

"Taking the stage" is generally considered neutral, suitable for both news reports and casual descriptions of events. However, it is less formal than expressions like "commencing the presentation".

What does "taking the stage" imply?

"Taking the stage" suggests a transition to a prominent or active role, often involving public speaking or performance. It implies a level of preparation and intention to engage with an audience.