# it takes

idiom · CEFR A1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/it-takes
Updated: 2026-06-07

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- It takes ten minutes to walk to the park.
- It takes a lot of patience to learn a new language, but you will succeed if you keep practicing.
- It takes immense courage to stand up for your beliefs when everyone else chooses to remain silent during a crisis.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.