Phrases & Expressions

To postpone an invitation or engagement to a later time.

• I can't make it tonight, can I take a rain check?
• Thanks for the invitation, but I'll have to take a rain check.

To deal with a difficult or surprising situation calmly and without becoming upset.

• She took the news in stride.
• He takes criticism in stride and keeps working hard.

To discuss a topic or issue privately with someone later, rather than continuing to talk about it in a group setting.

• This is a complex issue; let's take it offline.
• I'd like to discuss your concerns privately, can we take it offline?

To assess a situation carefully to decide what to do.

• Before making a decision, let's take stock of our resources.
• The team took stock after their defeat to plan the next game.

To begin to speak in a meeting or debate.

• The next speaker will take the floor at noon.
• He waited for his chance to take the floor.

To be deeply affected or upset by something said or done.

• Don't take his criticism to heart; he's just having a bad day.
• She takes every small comment to heart.

To not believe something completely; to be skeptical about information.

• Take what he says with a pinch of salt.
• You should take that rumor with a pinch of salt.

Providing someone with the skills to support themselves, rather than just giving them temporary help.

• Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.
• We should teach a man to fish, not just give him money.

An excellent new invention or innovation.

• This new software is the best thing since sliced bread.
• He thinks his idea is the best thing since sliced bread.

Other people's situations often seem better than your own, even if they are not.

• Remember that the grass is always greener on the other side.
• She wants her friend's life, but the grass is always greener.