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 .

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Example Sentences

But don’t take it personally on your favorite shows’ behalf, because Emmy voters don’t know or see everything.

From Salon • Jul. 9, 2026

I had to, you know, take it on the chin, or whatever.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2026

"It also probably means I'm old, but I'll take it," he said in a statement released by the annual festival.

From Barron's • Jul. 6, 2026

“We have taken it from point B to point D, and Authentic Brands is the right steward to take it forward.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 30, 2026

Hunters take it with them when they go out on the ice.

From "Black Star, Bright Dawn" by Scott O'Dell