they took charge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they took charge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where individuals assume control or responsibility for a task or situation. Example: "During the crisis, they took charge and organized the rescue efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"The dining elements, they took charge," said Ms. Fairstein, 65. "They're the engine of the book.

The New York Times - Food

After that, they took charge of their own tours and together accumulated a small fortune.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At times in the first half the All Blacks played like strangers, but after half-time they took charge.

Independent

New managers' experience in their organization's industry also affected significantly how they took charge and what problems they encountered.

Harvard Business Review

At the same time, Republicans have stirred up their core voters and made inroads with independents by accusing Democrats of profligacy since they took charge.

The New York Times

"The military police were aware of this and they took charge of it; they're the ones who secured it," Mr. Busin said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

They take charge".

The New York Times

A number of factors shape how executives progress through these stages and how successfully they take charge.

Harvard Business Review

The villagers were adamant that they take charge of the move this time and remain an intact community – not scatter to other towns.

The Guardian

Some conservatives are agitating for a temporary measure that would allow Republicans to revisit agency funding levels when they take charge early next year.

The Washington Post

All other things being equal, managers' functional backgrounds, managerial experiences, and special competencies appear to determine how they take charge: what actions they take and how competently they implement them.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they took charge" to clearly indicate that a group or individuals assumed control or responsibility for a situation. This phrase is effective for emphasizing initiative and leadership.

Common error

Avoid using "they took charge" when the individuals only handled a small aspect of a larger operation. Reserve it for instances where they had broad control and responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they took charge" functions as a verb phrase indicating that a group or individuals assumed control or responsibility for a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent and correct usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

19%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "they took charge" effectively communicates the assumption of control or responsibility by a group or individuals. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correct and widespread usage. As evidenced by the common frequency across News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, it is a versatile phrase. When considering alternatives, it is important to select a phrase that matches the specific context and desired level of formality. Whether "they assumed control", "they took the lead", or "they stepped up", each offers a subtly different nuance. Understanding these nuances ensures precise communication. Pay attention to not using it when the area of responsibility is small.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they assumed control

Emphasizes the act of taking control without necessarily implying leadership.

they took the lead

Highlights the act of leading or guiding a group or process.

they took command

Suggests a more authoritative and directive form of control.

they stepped up

Focuses on the act of rising to the occasion and accepting responsibility.

they took over

Indicates a complete transfer of control or responsibility.

they seized control

Implies a forceful or decisive assumption of control.

they spearheaded the effort

Emphasizes initiating and leading a particular endeavor.

they managed the situation

Highlights the act of overseeing and directing a specific situation.

they handled the matter

Focuses on managing a specific issue or problem.

they became responsible

Highlights the act of becoming accountable and in charge

FAQs

What does "they took charge" mean?

The phrase "they took charge" means that a group or individuals assumed control, responsibility, or leadership in a particular situation.

How can I use "they took charge" in a sentence?

You can use "they took charge" to describe how a group or individual stepped up to lead or manage a situation, for example: "During the crisis, "they took charge" and organized the rescue efforts."

What are some alternatives to "they took charge"?

Alternatives include "they assumed control", "they took the lead", or "they took command", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "they took charge" formal or informal?

"They took charge" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of the communication rather than the phrase itself.