took office

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took office" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone being formally appointed or elected to a position of leadership. For example, "In January, Joe Biden took office as the President of the United States."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I was 9 when Jimmy Carter took office.

The New York Times - Magazine

In December Zedillo took office.

The New Yorker

Then Mr. Paterson took office.

The New York Times

She took office in February.

The New Yorker

He took office on Jan.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Reed took office in 1997.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He took office in 2009.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A minority Labour government took office.

The Economist

When Cavour took office Piedmont was bankrupt.

The New Yorker

Rufus took office in January 1896.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He took office on Dec. 1.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "took office", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific position or role being assumed. This adds clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "take office" when referring to a past event; use the past tense form, "took office". The present tense is only appropriate when discussing future or hypothetical scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took office" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of someone's tenure in a specific position, often one of authority or leadership. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

39%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "took office" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the commencement of an individual's term in a position of authority or responsibility, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It commonly appears in news reports, encyclopedias, and business documents. When writing, ensure the tense is appropriate to the context, and consider related phrases like "assumed duties" or "began term" to add variety. Understanding its context helps ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began term

Emphasizes the start of a defined period in a particular role.

started tenure

Highlights the length of time someone is expected to hold a position.

assumed duties

Focuses on the obligations and responsibilities that come with a new position.

sworn in

Refers to the oath-taking ceremony that officially marks the start of a public servant's term.

entered upon office

A more formal and traditional way of expressing the beginning of official duties.

commenced leadership

Highlights the beginning of someone's active role in guiding and directing others.

embarked on leadership

Highlights the commitment and initiative involved in beginning a leadership role.

was inaugurated

Specifically relates to the formal ceremony marking the beginning of a political leader's term.

came into power

Focuses on gaining the position or control.

acceded to power

Emphasizes the attainment of control or authority.

FAQs

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

You can use "took office" to describe when someone formally began their duties in a particular position. For example, "The new mayor "took office" on Monday."

What are some alternatives to saying "took office"?

Alternatives include "assumed duties", "began term", or "sworn in", depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "take office" instead of "took office"?

The correct tense depends on the context. Use "take office" when referring to a future or hypothetical event, and "took office" when referring to a past event.

What's the difference between "assumed office" and "took office"?

"Took office" implies a more formal entry into a position, often after an election or appointment. "Assumed office" can be used more broadly to indicate the start of responsibilities in a role.