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take the initiative

Idioms  
  1. Begin a task or plan of action, as in The boss was on vacation when they ran out of materials, so Julie took the initiative and ordered more. This term uses initiative in the sense of “the power to originate something,” a usage dating from the late 1700s.


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.

"India should take the initiative as the big neighbour. India should do the outreach. Bangladesh has held a robust election; now engage, see where we can help. I'm hopeful the BNP has learnt the lessons of the past," says Datta.

From BBC

"Since I came back after pregnancy, for me it's been all about trying to find those opportunities to take the initiative and strike first," Svitolina said.

From BBC

"I think the chair umpire should be able to take the initiative, that's what he's there for," she said.

From BBC

"But Chinese companies will take the initiative to adjust the destination of exports to overcome difficulties. Exporters are waiting and looking for new customers."

From BBC

"He had to pull the strings and take the initiative. It gives such a boost to young people who may also start with nothing and who work to achieve their goals in life."

From BBC