Learn
Watch & LearnLearning Paths
Daily EnglishSocial EnglishProfessional EnglishVOA English
Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use “take” expressions to set a boundary, describe compromise, talk about family resemblance, and pause for a rest.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis broad episode shows how “take” combines with other words to express a firm offer, misplaced anger, compromise, family resemblance, and a short rest. The lesson selects a small set of practical expressions and avoids repeating those already taught in the collection.
Cultural note: “Take it or leave it” can sound like an ultimatum; use it only when you are genuinely unwilling to negotiate. “Take it out on someone” identifies misplaced anger, but it does not excuse shouting or other harmful behavior. “Take after” can refer to appearance, manner, or habits; avoid reducing a person to one family trait.
Keep exploringThe word “take” changes meaning with its partner: it can set a firm limit, describe an unfair outburst, or make space for compromise.
Phrase guide · 6 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Set a firm position or name anger directed at the wrong person.
Meaning
Accept an offer as it is, or reject it; no changes are being offered.
Tone & use
Can sound blunt, impatient, or like an ultimatum. In negotiation, “This is my best offer” may be more courteous.
Example
“The seller said the listed price was take it or leave it, so we thanked her and kept looking.”
Meaning
Direct anger or frustration at a person who did not cause the original problem.
Tone & use
Informal. It explains misplaced anger but does not make hurtful behavior acceptable.
Example
“When the delivery was late, he apologized for taking his frustration out on the receptionist.”
Talk about exchanging ideas or sharing a family trait.
Meaning
A process of compromise in which each side makes some concessions; it can also mean a lively exchange of ideas.
Tone & use
Useful in collaboration and negotiation. Fair give-and-take should not mean that one person always gives way.
Example
“The schedule took some give-and-take: the team moved the deadline, and the client shortened the review period.”
Meaning
Resemble a family member in appearance, behavior, or a particular quality.
Tone & use
Often used about relatives. Be specific and avoid assuming that a child must share every trait of a parent.
Example
“Lena takes after her aunt in her patient way of teaching people to cook.”
Ask for a brief break without making it a larger event.
Meaning
Take a short break, often around five minutes.
Tone & use
Informal and common at work or during rehearsals. The break need not be exactly five minutes.
Example
“We had been reviewing spreadsheets all morning, so the manager told everyone to take five.”
Recognize language for being fooled without rushing to accuse.
Meaning
Deceive or cheat someone, especially by giving them a dishonest deal.
Tone & use
Informal and accusatory. Check details before using it about a real person; “I think I was overcharged” is more precise when facts are uncertain.
Example
“The invoice included a service she had never approved, so she asked the company to explain before deciding whether they had taken her for a ride.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
1 of 3