# take over

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/take-over
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to take control of something, like a job, a company, or a situation.

For teachers: To assume control or management of something, often replacing a previous person or entity; frequently used in business contexts regarding acquisitions.

## Examples

- She will take over the manager's job next month.
- A large international bank is planning to take over the local family-owned business.
- The vice president was forced to take over the daily operations after the CEO unexpectedly resigned during the merger negotiations.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The company was take over by a rival." but "The company was taken over by a rival." — As a phrasal verb, the verb 'take' must still follow standard conjugation rules for the passive voice.

## Usage notes

- Can be used with or without a direct object depending on whether the thing being controlled is mentioned.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'overtake' (to pass someone physically or in quality); 'take over' focuses on the transfer of power or responsibility.

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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.