took
- 01 A1 Beginner
the past tense of 'take' — used to say you moved something, used time, or accepted something in the past.
the simple past tense of the irregular verb 'take'.
Simple“He took his umbrella because the sky looked very grey.”
In context“The journey took much longer than anticipated due to the unexpected roadworks on the main motorway.”
PitfallI have took the bus many times. I have taken the bus many times.In standard English, 'took' is only for the simple past. Use 'taken' after 'have', 'has', or 'had'.
- 02 C1 Advanced
a different way to say 'taken' in some local styles of speaking.
the past participle of 'take' used in place of 'taken'; this is a feature of specific regional dialects and informal speech.
Simple“He should have took the keys when he had the chance.”
In context“In some regional varieties of English, speakers might say they have 'took' a photo rather than 'taken' one, though this is avoided in formal writing.”
UsageUsed with auxiliary verbs like 'have' or 'be' in non-standard English.
Synonyms
Usage took place · took part · took effect