The phrase "take in" is a versatile English phrasal verb that has several meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Let's break it down for easier understanding.
Basic Definition:
To make smaller: For example, if you have lost weight and your skirt is too big, you can say, "Please take in this skirt."
To adopt or accept: For instance, "They took in two children from Nicaragua," meaning they adopted or welcomed them into their family.
To consume or absorb: For example, "I don’t take sugar in my coffee," means you do not add sugar to your coffee.
To observe or experience: For example, "Let’s take in the sights while we are in the city," meaning to see and enjoy what the city has to offer.
Usage Instructions:
Verb Form: "Take in" is used as a verb, so it can be followed by a noun or a pronoun.
Tenses: You can use it in different tenses, such as "took in" for past and "taking in" for present continuous.
Examples:
Clothing: "I need to take in this dress because it’s too loose."
Family: "The couple took in a stray dog and gave it a loving home."
Consumption: "I try to take in more vegetables in my diet."
Observation: "We took in the beautiful view from the mountain top."
Advanced Usage:
Metaphorical Use: "She took in the information quickly," meaning she absorbed the knowledge fast.
Financial Context: "This business venture is expected to take in a lot of profit," meaning to earn or generate income.
Different Meanings:
Sail Context: "We need to take in the sails before the storm," meaning to fold up the sails of a boat.
Collecting: "He went around the neighborhood to take in the rent," meaning to collect the rent money.
Synonyms:
For "accept": adopt, welcome, receive.
For "absorb": soak up, ingest, consume.
For "observe": see, watch, view.
Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs:
"Take someone in": This can mean to deceive someone or to provide them shelter.
"Take up": This often means to begin a new activity or hobby, like "I want to take up painting."
Word Variants:
Conclusion:
"Take in" is a useful phrasal verb that can mean various things, such as making something smaller, absorbing information, or welcoming someone into your life.