taking the time

USAGE SUMMARY

"taking the time" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to signify the effort or willingness to devote effort to something. For example, "I'm taking the time to learn how to use this new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

"I appreciate you taking the time.

The New York Times

It's taking the time to really enjoy.

The New York Times

It's worth taking the time to get them right.

The New York Times

Thanks for taking the time to write in.

The New Yorker

Thank you for taking the time to read my question.

The New York Times

They're really taking the time to look at the art".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

He takes the time".

The New York Times - Books

"But he took the time".

The New York Times

Take the time to wean yourself.

The New York Times

Miles couldn't take the time himself.

The New York Times - Arts

"He takes the time with me.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "taking the time", ensure that the context clearly indicates the benefit or outcome of allocating that time. This adds emphasis and purpose to the action.

Common error

Avoid using "taking the time" in overly passive constructions that dilute the sense of agency. Instead of saying "Time was taken to review...", opt for "The team took the time to review...", which is more direct and impactful.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "taking the time" is that of a verb phrase functioning as a present participle. As confirmed by Ludwig, it often modifies nouns or acts as part of a continuous verb tense, indicating an ongoing action or state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "taking the time" is a verb phrase, functioning as a present participle, is used to convey the action of allocating time for something. Ludwig AI validates that this phrase is correct and usable in written English, and is used to emphasize effort or willingness to devote effort to something. Examples show that it frequently appears in "News & Media" and "Formal & Business" contexts. To enhance clarity, it's best practice to use it in active constructions and highlight the benefits derived from the time spent. Related phrases include "making time" and "dedicating time", which offer nuanced alternatives. Overall, the examples from Ludwig show the versatility and frequency of this common English expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making time

Focuses on the act of creating availability in one's schedule.

finding the time

Highlights the effort required to locate or secure time.

dedicating time

Emphasizes the commitment to allocate time to something.

investing time

Suggests that time is used with the expectation of a positive return.

spending time

Implies the act of using or passing time, often in a leisurely way.

allocating time

Stresses the planned distribution of time among various activities.

setting aside time

Underscores the action of reserving time for a specific purpose.

making an effort

Shifts the focus to the exertion of effort, rather than time specifically.

going to the trouble

Highlights the willingness to undertake effort, which may include spending time.

troubling oneself

Expresses that someone is making effort for an action.

FAQs

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

You can use "taking the time" to emphasize the effort someone makes to do something, as in, "She is "taking the time" to listen to my concerns".

What are some alternatives to "taking the time"?

Alternatives include "making time", "dedicating time", or "investing time", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "take the time" instead of "taking the time"?

Both phrases are correct but have different uses. "Take the time" is often used as an imperative, while "taking the time" is a present participle used in continuous tenses or as a gerund.

What's the difference between "taking the time" and "finding the time"?

"Taking the time" suggests a deliberate allocation of effort, while "finding the time" implies overcoming obstacles to make that allocation.