took time off

USAGE SUMMARY

"took time off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
For example, "I took time off last week to visit family". It can be used when referring to taking vacation or days off from work or school.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Many took time off work.

The Guardian - Music

'You took time off without pay.

The Guardian - Sport

They took time off to cycle across continents.

The New York Times - Sports

She took time off, then reopened April 9.

The New York Times

Mr. Fujimori then took time off to visit his mother.

The New York Times

Lopez, however, took time off during her streak.

The New York Times - Sports

Nicoll took time off before going back to finance to help Booker raise money.

The New Yorker

Kindred took time off from swimming last year to have a baby.

Independent

(Meyer took time off from coaching after he left the Gators, citing health concerns).

The New York Times - Sports

Two key top managers took time off during the week of the evacuation.

The New York Times

Ms. Harvey never had that high a profile because she frequently took time off from performing.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "took time off", be specific about the reason for the break if it's relevant to the context. This adds clarity and helps the reader understand the situation better.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect tenses when discussing past breaks. Ensure you use "took time off" (past tense) instead of "take time off" (present tense) when referring to a break that has already occurred.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "took time off" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the action of taking a break or absence from regular activities. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is generally accepted as grammatically correct. It describes a deliberate pause or interruption in one's usual routine.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "took time off" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating an absence or break from regular activities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science and Wiki contexts, it serves to inform or explain a temporary cessation of duties. While generally neutral in register, its formality can be adjusted based on the specific setting. To use it effectively, provide context for the reason for the break. Remember to use the past tense form correctly. Alternatives such as "had a break" or "stepped away" can be considered based on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had some time off

Reorders the phrase slightly while retaining the core meaning.

stepped away

Suggests a temporary departure, often to gain perspective or address personal matters.

was on leave

Implies an officially approved absence, often from work or school.

had a break

Focuses on the idea of a short rest or pause, less specific about the duration or reason.

paused their duties

More formal and emphasizes the interruption of responsibilities.

took a hiatus

Suggests a more extended or indefinite break, often in creative or professional contexts.

took a vacation

Specifically implies a break for leisure and relaxation.

suspended activity

Broadly applicable, implying any kind of pause in an ongoing action or process.

went on sabbatical

Indicates a formal leave, typically for academic or professional development.

ceased work temporarily

Highly formal, emphasizes the temporary cessation of employment.

FAQs

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

You can use "took time off" to describe a past absence from work, school, or other regular activities. For instance, "She "took time off" to care for her family" or "He "took time off" to travel".

What's a less formal way to say "took time off"?

Less formal alternatives include "had a break", "stepped away", or "took a breather". These phrases suggest a more casual and less structured absence.

Is it correct to say "taken time off"?

Yes, "taken time off" is the past participle form, often used with auxiliary verbs like "have" or "had". For example, "I have "taken time off" recently".

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

"Took time off" implies an action of initiating a break, while "got time off" suggests receiving permission or opportunity for a break. Example: "I "took time off" to relax", "I "got time off" from my boss".