to take up
—| C1 (advanced) |—
In North American English, this phrase typically means:
PHRASAL VERB:
to start doing a particular activity
to accept someone’s offer (to take + someone + up [on + offer])
to fill a certain amount of time or physical space
to discuss a particular issue in order to find a solution (to take + something + up [with + someone])
EXAMPLES:
“Though it is common–and, to some people, quite “cliche”–in Canada to start a new diet and exercise regime in January, many Canadians will be taking up a new hobby as their New Year’s resolution, instead.”
“Unfortunately, I can’t go out for coffee this weekend because I have too many errands to run. But I will definitely take you up on that offer because that new cafe we’re talking about has been on my to-do list for quite some time now… Plus, it would be so nice to finally catch up with you; it has been far too long!”
“Oh, no! This couch doesn’t look like it’s gonna fit up the stairwell! Even if we pivot it it’s not gonna do much. This thing just takes up too much space! What’re we gonna do?!”
“Karen was not happy with how the cashier handled her return, so she took it up with the manager. She always does everything in her power to get what she wants. That’s what Karen does. She is an unstoppable force.”
ASSOCIATED WORDS:
Some synonyms for “to take up” include:
to start + activity – definition 1
to be game [for + something] (slang) – definition 2
to accept (formal) – definition 2
PHRASAL VERB: to agree to (formal; Business English) – definition 2
to occupy (formal) – definition 3
to discuss – definition 4
to brainstorm solutions – definition 4
Some collocations with “to take up” include:
to take up a new hobby – definition 1
to take up office – definition 1
to take up a position – definition 1
to take someone up on an offer – definition 2
to take someone up on a date – definition 2
to take someone up on an invitation – definition 2
to take up space – definition 3
to take up room – definition 3
to take up time – definition 3
to take it up with someone – definition 4
What kinds of activities have you taken up before? Have you ever taken someone up on an offer? What was it? What about something that just takes up too much room in your home or office? Maybe you’ve had to take something up with your boss? Let me know what you have taken up in the comments below.
