took out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of removing something from a place or taking something away. Example: "She took out the trash before leaving for work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She took out a….

The New Yorker

took out banner ads online.

The New Yorker

She took out her clarinet.

The New York Times - Arts

I took out my graptolites.

The New Yorker

Gardner took out her checkbook.

The New Yorker

Soik took out his phone.

The New Yorker

I took out the pencil.

The New Yorker

He took out a comb.

The New Yorker

She took out a list.

The New Yorker

'You took out Duvalier!

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Take out the machinery".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "took out", ensure the context clearly indicates what was removed and from where. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "took out" when a more precise verb would better convey the specific action. For example, instead of "He took out the document", consider "He retrieved the document from the archive" for added clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took out" functions primarily as a verb phrase in the past tense. It indicates the action of removing or extracting something, as Ludwig's examples clearly demonstrate. This action can range from physically removing an object to eliminating something abstract.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "took out" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the act of removing, extracting, or eliminating something. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is versatile and appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its register is generally neutral, selecting more precise verbs based on context, rather than always relying on "took out", can greatly enhance clarity. Remember to ensure that it's clear from the sentence what was taken out and from where to avoid ambiguity. Consider alternative phrases when a different semantic nuance is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

took away

Similar to removed, but often implies taking something from someone.

removed

A general term for taking something away, lacking the specific nuance of intent or force.

withdrew

Indicates a deliberate removal, often of something valuable or essential.

pulled out

Implies a forceful or sudden removal, often against resistance.

extracted

Implies careful or skillful removal, often of something embedded or difficult to reach.

eliminated

Suggests the complete removal of something, often undesirable or problematic.

retrieved

Emphasizes the act of getting something back, implying it was previously lost or inaccessible.

cleared out

Indicates the removal of many items from a space, often to tidy or declutter.

drew out

Suggests a slow, deliberate removal, often of something hidden or reluctant.

took off

In some contexts, can imply removing an item of clothing.

FAQs

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

You can use "took out" to describe removing something from a specific location, like "She took out her keys" or eliminating something entirely, such as "The storm took out the power lines".

What can I say instead of "took out"?

Alternatives include "withdrew", "removed", or "extracted" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "taken out" instead of "took out"?

"Taken out" is the past participle form, often used with auxiliary verbs (e.g., "has taken out"), while "took out" is the simple past tense. Both are correct, but they are used in different grammatical constructions.

What's the difference between "took out" and "removed"?

While both imply taking something away, "took out" often suggests a more casual or routine action. "Removed", like the alternative phrase "extracted", can imply a more deliberate or careful process. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.