took some time off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "took some time off" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a period during which someone has temporarily stopped working or taken a break from their usual activities. Example: "After months of hard work, she decided she needed to recharge and took some time off to travel."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Shattered, they took some time off and pulled themselves back together.

The New Yorker

He also took some time off from racing after having a hip replaced in late 2016.

Britannica

While he was a graduate student at MIT, Saul Griffith took some time off in 2000.

MIT Technology Review

In Denver, the couple took some time off for a hike in the mountains.

The New York Times

He listed the apartment in March but took some time off from showing it over the summer.

The New York Times

"I went to Florida and worked there for a year and took some time off," he told me.

The New Yorker

"We took some time off for self-assessment," says one senior executive, "to search for new areas of growth".

The Economist

After graduating from Cambridge, in 1968, Serota took some time off before his postgraduate studies, at the Courtauld Institute.

The New Yorker

After an emotionally difficult 2017, Thompson took some time off and found a new, fluffy, five-pound friend.

The New York Times

After missing the cut at the U.S. Open three weeks ago, Cook took some time off from golf.

The New York Times - Sports

Maybe Cam Newton would have played better in February if he took some time off in November.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "took some time off", consider specifying the reason for the break to provide more context for your reader. For example, "She took some time off to care for her family".

Common error

Avoid using "took some time off" when referring to a permanent departure. This phrase implies a temporary break, not a complete cessation of activity or employment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took some time off" functions as a verbal phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a clause. It describes the action of temporarily ceasing one's regular activities or duties. This is confirmed by Ludwig, which highlights its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "took some time off" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating a temporary break from regular activities. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread acceptance and grammatical correctness. While suitable for most contexts, it's essential to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey and choose the most appropriate alternative if more precision is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a break

Replaces "took some time off" with a shorter, more informal expression.

took a leave of absence

Suggests a formal, often work-related, period of absence.

took a sabbatical

Implies a longer, more formal period of leave, often for study or travel.

took a vacation

Specifically implies a break for leisure and relaxation.

took a hiatus

Implies a temporary suspension of activity, often in creative or professional fields.

took a breather

Suggests a short pause to rest or recover.

paused for a while

Focuses on the temporary cessation of an activity.

ceased activity temporarily

A more formal and explicit way of saying "took some time off".

rested for a period

Highlights the aspect of resting during the time off.

discontinued work briefly

Focuses specifically on the interruption of work.

FAQs

How can I use "took some time off" in a sentence?

You can use "took some time off" to describe a temporary break from work, studies, or other regular activities. For example, "After the project ended, he "needed to recharge" and "took some time off" to travel".

What are some alternatives to "took some time off"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "took a break", "took a leave of absence", or "took a vacation".

Is it appropriate to use "took some time off" in formal writing?

Yes, "took some time off" is generally acceptable in both formal and informal writing. However, for highly formal contexts, consider more precise alternatives like "availed of a leave".

What's the difference between "took some time off" and "quit"?

"Took some time off" implies a temporary absence with the intention of returning, while "quit" signifies a permanent departure. For example, "She "took some time off" to have a baby", but she didn't quit her job, she came back after the maternity leave; instead, "He quit his job" to start his own business, he is not intending to come back to his old work.