# take up a collection

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/take-up-a-collection
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To request and receive money or goods of value from members of a group, especially for a charitable purpose.

## Examples

- We should take up a collection for his birthday gift.
- The office staff decided to take up a collection to help their colleague pay for unexpected medical bills.
- Following the tragic fire that destroyed the community center, the neighbors resolved to take up a collection to assist the displaced families with their immediate needs.

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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.