# take out of context

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/take-out-of-context
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To report (something) without taking into account the context in which it occurred.

## Examples

- Do not take my words out of context.
- The newspaper took his quote out of context, making it seem like he disagreed with the plan.
- By taking the author's controversial statement out of context, the critics ignored the nuanced argument presented in the rest of the book.

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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.