took service

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took service" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone has begun working for an organization or in a specific role, often in a formal or historical context. Example: "After completing his training, he took service with the royal navy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

His brother took service in Gaul under Caesar.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mieris took service with Abraham Toorenvliet, a glazier who kept a school of design.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some expatriate Egyptians took service with the rulers of Kush as mercenaries, while others probably worked in the glaze industry at Karmah.

Encyclopedia Britannica

De Grasse took service in 1734 on the galleys of the Knights of Malta, and in 1740 he entered the French service.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Failing to enlist British interests in the development of the Congo region, Stanley took service with the king of Belgium, Leopold II, whose secret ambition it was to annex the region for himself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After the Franco-Spanish Treaty of Mozon (1626), however, the Valtellina was virtually abandoned to Spain; Jenatsch took service with Venice, while the Austrians reconquered the Grisons (1629 31).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The companies make money by taking service fees, a percentage of the winnings off the top.

The New York Times - Tech

Inexplicably, on a more crowded Sunday, when nearly every table was taken, service was admirable.

The New York Times

But which properties are really taking service and amenities to the next level?

The New York Times

THE librarian Cynthia F. Johnson takes service for harried suburbanites to a whole new level.

The New York Times

Some buildings are planning to take service elevators, storage rooms and garages out of operation if there is a strike.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "took service" when referring to historical or formal contexts, such as describing someone entering military service or joining a specific organization with established protocols.

Common error

While "took service" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal or archaic in modern, informal settings. Opt for more common phrases like "started working for" or "joined" when the context doesn't warrant the formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took service" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of employment or duty, often within a structured or hierarchical organization. It denotes the action of entering into a formal role, as illustrated by Ludwig examples relating to military and organizational roles.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

36%

Science

32%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "took service" implies formally beginning employment or duty, particularly in a structured or hierarchical setting. Though grammatically correct and identified as such by Ludwig, it's best suited for historical or formal contexts, as a simpler phrase such as "started working for" might be more appropriate in modern casual communication. Ludwig examples show it often appears in encyclopedias and formal documents. When choosing to use "took service", consider if a formal, historical, or official tone is desired; otherwise, simpler alternatives may better serve the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

began working for

A simple and direct alternative.

entered employment

Replaces "took service" with a more general term for starting a job.

accepted a position with

More formal alternative for starting a job.

became an employee of

A straightforward way to express starting employment.

enlisted in the army

Specifically refers to joining the military.

entered into the service of

More formal and somewhat archaic phrasing.

joined the clergy

Specifically refers to entering a religious order.

signed up for

Implies a more active role in choosing to serve.

committed to serving

Emphasizes the dedication aspect of providing service.

offered services to

Focuses on providing help or skills.

FAQs

What does "took service" mean?

The phrase "took service" means to have started working for a person, organization, or entity, often implying a formal or committed role. It can also refer to entering military or religious "orders".

What can I say instead of "took service"?

You can use alternatives like "started working for", "joined", or "enlisted in" depending on the context.

Is "took service" formal or informal?

"Took service" is generally considered a more formal expression. In modern contexts, simpler alternatives like "started a job" or "began employment" may be more appropriate.

How to use "took service" in a sentence?

Example: "After graduating, he "took service" with the local government." or "Many expatriate Egyptians "took service" with the rulers of Kush as mercenaries."