take place
take PLAYSS
/teɪk pleɪs/
To happen or occur, especially after being planned.
Usually used for scheduled events rather than accidental ones.
The story behind the word. The phrase 'take place' comes from the idea of an event 'taking' or occupying a specific 'place' in space and time.
Word relationships
- occur: Occur is more formal and can apply to unplanned events.
- transpire: Transpire is very formal and often used when something becomes known.
- cancel: Cancel is to stop an event from taking place.
Commonly confused with
- take the place of: 'Take the place of' means to substitute; 'take place' means to happen.
Collocations
- regularly take place
- scheduled to take place
- take place annually
Example sentences
- "The Olympic Games take place every four years." A sports event.
- "The signing of the treaty will take place in the Great Hall." A historical event.
Memory hook
Imagine an event physically 'taking' a spot on a calendar map. Take a spot, take place.
When not to use
For sudden, unplanned accidents, 'happen' or 'occur' is more common than 'take place'.
Fun facts
- In the 1700s, 'take place' was sometimes used to mean 'to take precedence'.
Related words
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