to take leave

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to take leave" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to the act of formally being absent from work or duties, often for a specific period. Example: "She decided to take leave for a family emergency." Alternative expressions include "to take time off" and "to go on leave."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His boss had given him permission to take leave.

The New Yorker

Before going, Susanoo went to take leave of his sister.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was inciting voters to take leave of their senses.

The New Yorker

"They really pushed everyone to take leave," Smith explained.

The New York Times - Magazine

Jim's unit had set up a rotation for the airmen to take leave.

The New York Times

Peer has to take leave from her military service to be able to compete.

The New York Times - Sports

They didn't allow us to take leave of our friends and neighbours in Cuba.

The Guardian

That they shamelessly signal to the listener that they're about to take leave of the question?

The Guardian

The ice bucket challenge has not driven the organisation to take leave of its senses.

The Guardian

Only mothers will be allowed to take leave in the first two weeks' leave after birth.

The Guardian - Money

She was denied a request to take leave on a Saturday.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing formal absences from work or duty, using "to take leave" is appropriate. Consider specifying the type of leave (e.g., medical leave, parental leave) for clarity.

Common error

Ensure you're using the correct form of "leave". "Leave" (noun or verb relating to absence) is different from "live" (verb meaning to reside) or "leave" (verb meaning to depart or abandon).

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to take leave" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, often acting as a verb complement or part of a larger verb phrase. As seen in Ludwig, it expresses the action of absenting oneself from work or duty.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to take leave" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying a formal absence from work or duty. As noted by Ludwig, it's commonly found in news and media, scientific publications, and formal business contexts. While alternatives such as "to go on leave" or "to take time off" exist, "to take leave" carries a degree of formality often appropriate in professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context and avoid confusion with similar-sounding words. The information provided by Ludwig confirms its widespread and correct usage across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to go on leave

A more direct alternative, focusing on the state of being on leave.

to take time off

A more general phrase referring to any absence from work or duties.

to request leave

Focuses on the act of asking for permission to be absent.

to be granted leave

Highlights the permission aspect of taking leave.

to take a sabbatical

Refers to a longer period of leave, typically for academic or professional development.

to take a break

A less formal way of saying to take leave, often for shorter periods.

to be on vacation

Specifically refers to taking leave for leisure and travel.

to absent oneself

A formal and somewhat archaic way to indicate absence.

to take a furlough

Implies a mandatory or temporary leave, often due to economic reasons.

to be excused

Focuses on being formally released from a duty or obligation.

FAQs

How can I use "to take leave" in a sentence?

You can use "to take leave" when referring to the act of formally being absent from work or duties. For example: "She decided to take leave for a family emergency", or "He was granted permission to take leave".

What's the difference between "to take leave" and "to take time off"?

While both phrases refer to being absent, "to take leave" often implies a more formal or official absence, such as for medical or parental reasons. "To take time off" is a more general term for any absence from work.

Which is correct, "to take leave" or "to take a leave"?

"To take leave" is generally correct. "To take a leave" is less common but can be used when specifying a particular type of leave, such as "to take a medical leave".

What can I say instead of "to take leave"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to go on leave", "to take time off", or "to request leave".