Word
taking place
Definition
fixed phrase. to happen or occur, especially when something is planned or organized.
fixed phrase. to occur or happen; most frequently used to describe scheduled events, ceremonies, or organized activities. The phrase functions as an intransitive unit.
Examples
“The wedding is taking place in a beautiful garden.”
“The music festival is taking place this weekend at the city park, despite the rain.”
“Significant political shifts were taking place across the continent as the old regime began to lose its grip on power.”
Examples
simple
“The wedding is taking place in a beautiful garden.”
contextual
“The music festival is taking place this weekend at the city park, despite the rain.”
complex
“Significant political shifts were taking place across the continent as the old regime began to lose its grip on power.”
Usage
usually used for events that have a specific time and location.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'happen', which is used for both planned and accidental events; 'taking place' strongly suggests a planned arrangement.
Pitfall
The accident was taking place at 5 PM.
The accident happened at 5 PM.
'Taking place' is generally reserved for planned events rather than sudden, accidental occurrences.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/taking-place