Quick Definition
Take Over — To assume control of something; to succeed someone in a role.
Meanings of Take Over
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Assume control | A rival company took over the business. | They acquired and now control it. |
| Succeed in a role | She will take over as CEO next month. | She will succeed the current CEO. |
| Dominate | Work seems to be taking over my life. | It is dominating my life. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| A rival company took over the business. | They acquired and now control it. |
| She will take over as CEO next month. | She will succeed the current CEO. |
| Work seems to be taking over my life. | It is dominating my life. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll take over it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: separable | Transitivity: transitive / intransitive
Transitive separable: take the company over or take over the company. Intransitive with 'from': take over from someone.
How to Use Take Over
Neutral. Very common in business, politics, and news reporting.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | A rival company took over the business. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Take Over
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Take Over
What does "Take Over" mean?
"Take Over" means: To assume control of something; to succeed someone in a role. It is a transitive / intransitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B2.
Is "Take Over" separable or inseparable?
"Take Over" is separable. Transitive separable: take the company over or take over the company. Intransitive with 'from': take over from someone.
How do I use "Take Over" in a sentence?
A rival company took over the business. -- in this example, 'Take Over' means they acquired and now control it.
What is the register of "Take Over"?
Neutral. Very common in business, politics, and news reporting.
What CEFR level is "Take Over"?
"Take Over" is typically taught at CEFR B2 — Upper Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Take Over" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Take Over" specifically means: To assume control of something; to succeed someone in a role. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Take Over" be used formally?
Neutral. Very common in business, politics, and news reporting. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Take Over" take an object?
"Take Over" is transitive / intransitive. Transitive separable: take the company over or take over the company. Intransitive with 'from': take over from someone.
How can I practise "Take Over"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Take Over' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Take Over" used in British or American English?
"Take Over" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. Very common in business, politics, and news reporting.