What Are the Most Useful Phrasal Verbs with “Take”?

Ever feel like English is obsessed with “take”? Take up, take in, take out—what’s the deal?

“Take up” means to start something. Like, “I’m taking up yoga to relax.” Spoiler: it’s not relaxing. “Take in” is about absorbing—information, sights, or even stray cats. And “take out”? Well, it’s food you don’t cook or the thing you do to the trash.

Here’s my favorite: “Take off.” Planes take off, businesses take off, and yes, you can take off your shoes. Context is key with phrasal verbs, but don’t worry—they’ll take root with practice. If you want me to answer more of your questions, send them to ask@englishpluspodcast.com.