ENGLISH
REFERENCE

it takes

idiom
Meaning

You use this phrase to say how much time, effort, or some other resource is needed to do something.


Examples
SIMPLE

It takes ten minutes to walk to the park.

CONTEXTUAL

It takes a lot of patience to learn a new language, but you will succeed if you keep practicing.

COMPLEX

It takes immense courage to stand up for your beliefs when everyone else chooses to remain silent during a crisis.

Last updated June 7, 2026