take it

Idioms  

1. Understand, as in I take it they won't accept your proposal . [Early 1500s]

2. Endure abuse, criticism, harsh treatment, or unpleasantness, as in Tell me what you really think of me—I can take it . [Mid-1800s] This phrase is sometimes modified as take just so much , meaning “endure only up to a point.” For example, I can take just so much of this nonsense before I lose patience . Also see take it on the chin ; take lying down .

3. Accept or believe something, as in I'll take it on the doctor's say-so . Also see the subsequent entries beginning with take it .

---

Example Sentences

They’re very frugal and save a lot, yet they also have a “can’t take it with us” mindset.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

We take it day by day, week by week, like adults who have finally accepted that certainty is an illusion.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

"Go to the Strait and just take it," he added.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

The special-ops forces would have to sneak into Iran, find the stuff, perhaps burrowing into tunnels to do so, and somehow take it elsewhere.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

It was Karli’s idea, for instance, that two of the choir schoolchildren should take it in turns to ride up with him on Marlene, one in front of him, one behind.

From "An Elephant in the Garden" by Michael Morpurgo