TAKE OFF

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'take off' means to leave the ground and start flying, or metaphorically, to rapidly achieve success or popularity.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'take off' means to leave the ground and start flying, or metaphorically, to rapidly achieve success or popularity.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
'Take off' can be split when referring to removing items.
Register
Neutral
Can be used across formal and informal settings.
Transitive
Yes
'Take off' can have an object, like a plane or shoes.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple take off Planes take off from the runway.
Past Simple took off The new product took off in sales last year.
Present Continuous taking off She is taking off in her career.
Present Perfect have taken off They have taken off the shelves last night.

💡 When to Use

Describing flight
Use 'take off' to describe when an aircraft leaves the ground.
Example: "The aircraft will take off at exactly 3 PM."
Describing success
Use 'take off' to describe when something becomes successful quickly.
Example: "His business began to take off after the new marketing campaign."
Removing items
Use 'take off' when describing the removal of clothing or items.
Example: "She took off her coat as she entered the warm house."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect usage of separable form
❌ Wrong: She took off quickly her coat.
✅ Correct: She quickly took off her coat.
💡 Tip: Remember to place adverbs between 'take' and 'off' when separating.
Incorrect context application
❌ Wrong: The project took off down yesterday.
✅ Correct: The project took off yesterday.
💡 Tip: Use 'take off' without additional directional prepositions unless specifying flight.
Using intransitively with an object
❌ Wrong: Take off your hat it.
✅ Correct: Take your hat off.
💡 Tip: Ensure the object comes between 'take' and 'off'.
Practice

TAKE OFF - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

launch soar

Antonyms

land

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The new singer's career began to ___ rapidly after her first hit song."

land
take off
fall
stay

"In life, sometimes you must take off the burdens and fly towards freedom, embracing change as a chance to grow and renew."

In Context

On December 17, 1903, the Wright brothers marked a pivotal moment in aviation history with their innovative flying machine. Orville Wright was the first to take off from the ground, achieving a twelve-second flight that stretched 120 feet. Over the years, their passion to take off from the constraints of earth inspired others and revolutionized travel. During their experiments in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, every small flight was a testimony to their perseverance. On that cold December morning, when they first successfully took off, the world witnessed the dawn of a new era. The brothers' dream to take off into the skies overcame countless challenges, including skepticism and mechanical failures. Their ingenuity and dedication paved the way for future generations, reshaping the boundaries of human capability. As their aircraft evolved, they demonstrated that with determination, the human spirit can take off and transcend previous limitations. Their legacy endures, serving as a constant reminder that innovation and courage can indeed lift off into the horizon of possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Take Off

What is the origin of 'take off'?

+
The term ‘take off’ originated from aviation, referring to the action of becoming airborne. It was first used in the early 20th century.

Can 'take off' be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Take off' is versatile, used in both formal and informal contexts, fitting various settings like business achievements or casual clothing removal.

What is the difference between 'take off' and 'launch'?

+
'Launch' typically refers to initiating something new or starting an endeavor, whereas 'take off' emphasizes rapid ascent or rise in popularity or height.
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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