took a dig

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took a dig" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe making a critical or mocking remark about someone or something. Example: "During the meeting, she took a dig at his presentation skills, which left him feeling embarrassed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

In accepting the award, the directors jokingly took a dig at the American voters.

Independent

And he took a dig at Mr. Romney's recent world travels.

The New York Times

I took a dig at people who believe that the earth is six thousand years old.

The New Yorker

Also in his note Shanker took a dig at AIG management.

The Guardian - Business

In his answer, he took a dig at Mr. Aboul Fotouh, accusing "some people" of using the violence for political reasons.

The New York Times

He later took a dig at the Irish women's basketball team for running up the score in a 120-44 victoverover Pittsburgh.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

HENDRIK HERTZBERG: I didn't take a dig at people who believe in God.

The New Yorker

"I believe in transparency," she said, taking a dig at eHarmony.

The New York Times - Science

(The picture uses him to take a dig at Andrew Lloyd Webber scores).

The New York Times

Deans had the opportunity to take a dig at Gatland when asked what he made of the O'Driscoll decision.

The Guardian - Sport

Mourinho, who was recently fined for labelling a referee "afraid", also managed to take a dig at the FA with his post-match comments.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "took a dig" when you want to convey a subtle, often humorous, criticism. Be mindful of your audience; it's best suited for contexts where lightheartedness is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "took a dig" in highly formal or professional writing. Opt for more direct and less colloquial language when delivering criticism in serious settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took a dig" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of making a slighting or critical remark, often in a somewhat playful or indirect manner. Ludwig confirms that is a correct expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "took a dig" is a common idiom used to describe the act of making a subtle, often humorous, criticism. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it's best suited for informal to neutral contexts, as more direct language is preferred in formal settings. Alternatives such as "made a jab" or "threw shade" can offer similar meanings with varying degrees of intensity or formality. Overall, understanding the appropriate context is key to effectively using "took a dig" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

made a jab

Replaces "took" with "made", emphasizing the action of delivering a quick, sharp remark.

made a snide remark

Specifies the type of comment as "snide", highlighting its negative or sarcastic nature.

took a jab

Synonymous with "took a dig", offering a slightly more common alternative.

threw shade

A more informal, contemporary idiom for subtly insulting or criticizing someone.

took a swipe

Suggests a more aggressive or overt form of criticism.

offered a cutting remark

Highlights the sharpness and potential impact of the comment.

directed a barb

Emphasizes the pointed and potentially painful nature of the criticism.

delivered a pointed comment

Highlights the intent and directed nature of the remark.

made a sarcastic comment

Specifies sarcasm as the vehicle for the critical remark.

criticized indirectly

A more general term that lacks the subtle nuance of "took a dig".

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "took a dig"?

It means they made a slightly critical or mocking remark, often in a playful or indirect way.

How can I use "took a dig" in a sentence?

For example, "During the debate, the candidate "took a dig" at her opponent's economic policies."

What are some alternatives to "took a dig"?

You could use phrases like "made a jab", "made a snide remark", or "threw shade", depending on the context.

Is "took a dig" appropriate for formal writing?

It's generally better to avoid "took a dig" in formal writing. More direct and professional language is usually preferred.