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Synonyms

take stock

Idioms  

  1. Make an estimate or appraisal, as in We have to take stock of our finances before we can undertake a new project, or The career counselor advised Mark to take stock before changing his plans. This expression transfers making an inventory of goods (stock) to other kinds of appraisal. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Let's take stock of the lessons of the first month of the season, with regards to racing, qualifying and safety.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

—Oil prices were steady as traders take stock of developments to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 27, 2025

"I wanted to pause, take stock and offer something truly personal to me," Mr Williamson said.

From BBC • Nov. 19, 2025

If the market pullback has you queasy, consider it an opportunity to take stock of your investments.

From Barron's • Nov. 18, 2025

She glances across at Starry, and then swivels to take stock of my appearance.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.