# taking place

CEFR B1 · Fixed phrase

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/taking-place
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

to happen or occur, especially when something is planned or organized.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The accident was taking place at 5 PM." but "The accident happened at 5 PM." — 'Taking place' is generally reserved for planned events rather than sudden, accidental occurrences.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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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.