take down
Meaning(s)
1. write down a statement or piece of information
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
take down notes
Analysis
If you are watching something or listening to somebody speak and wish to make a record of it to refer back to later, you 'take it down.' In other words, you transcribe it. This expression is commonly used in both a social and professional context, and is similar to the phrase 'make a note of it.' A noun or pronoun can be used between 'take' and 'down.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- Sarah definitely took my number down correctly, so I'm not sure why she hasn't called me yet.
- Did you manage to take down the notes for the History class that I missed?
Professional Examples (Basic)
- When Maria is giving her sales pitch, I want you to take down the figures she quotes so we can refer back to them later.
- I need a new secretary. Even the basic act of taking down my messages seems beyond my current one.
2. remove something that had previously been put up or put in place
Popularity
Low
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
take down a banner
Analysis
This expression is usually used in reference to the removal something that has been hanging up, or the dismantling of an object or structure. It is more common in a social context. A noun or pronoun can be used between 'take' and 'down.' The phrasal verb 'bring down' has a similar meaning.
Social Examples (Basic)
- Surely it's time we took the Christmas decorations down? It's nearly February!
- That picture just didn't quite look right above my fireplace, so I decided to take it down and put something else up there instead.
- Will you help me take down the tent? It's too complicated to do on my own!
Professional Examples (Basic)
- We're taking down the advertising banner outside the shop because it just looks tacky.
- We have to take down any of our content that isn't clearly marked as an advertisement.