Definition of “Take Away”
The phrase “take away” can function as a verb or a noun, depending on the context.
- As a verb, it means to remove, subtract, or cause something to be no longer present.
- As a noun, it refers to something learned or gained from an experience or a meal purchased from a restaurant to be eaten elsewhere.
Synonyms for “Take Away”
Here is a categorized breakdown of synonyms for “take away,” based on their strength and contextual relevance.
Strongest Matches (Exact Equivalents)
These words/phrases have the closest meaning to “take away” and can often be used interchangeably.
- Remove
- Subtract
- Deduct
- Withdraw
- Extract
- Eliminate
- Erase
- Confiscate
Strong Matches (Similar Meaning but Context Dependent)
These words/phrases closely relate to “take away” but may have slightly different implications.
- Reduce
- Diminish
- Omit
- Dispossess
- Revoke
- Relieve
- Annul
- Abduct (in cases of forceful removal)
Weak Matches (Distantly Related but Occasionally Substitutable)
These words/phrases have a loose connection to “take away” and may be used in specific contexts.
- Ban
- Exclude
- Forfeit
- Curtail
- Suppress
- Retract
- Depreciate
- Weaken
- Override
Example Sentences Using “Take Away”
As a Verb:
- The waiter came to take away the empty plates after dinner.
- His performance was incredible, but one mistake took away from the overall experience.
- The teacher took away his phone for using it during class.
- The new law takes away some of our fundamental rights.
- Exercise can take away stress and improve mental health.
As a Noun:
- The biggest takeaway from the meeting was the importance of teamwork.
- Her main takeaway from the book was the significance of perseverance.
- We ordered a Chinese takeaway for dinner.
- The seminar provided valuable takeaways on financial planning.
- What’s your takeaway from today’s discussion?
Contextual Usage of “Take Away”
- Mathematics – Used in subtraction (e.g., “Five take away two equals three”).
- Education & Learning – Denotes key lessons learned (e.g., “My takeaway from the lecture is the importance of preparation”).
- Food & Dining – Refers to food meant for consumption elsewhere (e.g., “Let’s get a takeaway pizza tonight”).
- Legal & Authority – Refers to confiscation or rights removal (e.g., “The government took away certain benefits”).
- Medical & Well-being – Describes relief from pain or discomfort (e.g., “This medication should take away your headache”).
Related Words and Phrases
- Take out – Similar to “take away” but can also mean “eliminate” or “destroy” (e.g., “He took out the trash”).
- Carry out – Often used in the context of food, similar to “takeaway” (e.g., “We ordered a carry-out meal”).
- Pick up – Used when collecting something (e.g., “I’ll pick up our takeaway dinner”).
- Revoke – Formal removal of rights (e.g., “The license was revoked due to misconduct”).
- Forfeit – Losing something as a penalty (e.g., “He forfeited his championship title”).
Conclusion
The phrase “take away” is highly versatile, with meanings ranging from removal and subtraction to food and lessons learned. It is widely used in casual, formal, academic, and technical contexts.
Disclaimer
This page provides information on “take away” for educational and informational purposes. Usage may vary based on region and context. Always consult appropriate sources for specialized applications, such as legal or medical interpretations.
