Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition take up in American English

take up phrasal verb

[transitive] phrasal verb
1

to start doing something regularly as a habit, job, or interest

Example

I took up smoking when I was in high school.

Example

Chris has taken up jogging.

Example

The new surgeon will take up her position in May.

Synonyms and related words
begin start on set about habit routine custom
2

to fill a particular amount of space or time

Example

These files take up a lot of disk space.

Example

I'll try not to take up too much of your time.

Synonyms and related words
fill cram stuff
3

to accept an offer or a challenge (=an offer to fight or compete) that someone has made to you

Example

One of our greatest athletes has taken up a new challenge.

Example

Schools are taking up the offer of inexpensive computers.

Synonyms and related words
play race meet
4

to reduce the length of a piece of clothing or some curtains

Synonyms and related words
sew mend stitch
5

to continue to discuss or deal with an idea, problem, or suggestion

Example

Mrs. Pankhurst took up the cause of women's rights.

Example

She fell silent, and her brother took up the story.

Synonyms and related words
discuss consider talk
Example

Would you be willing to take up arms for this cause?

Synonyms and related words
attack bayonet be bombed out (of something)
7

to start living somewhere

Example

Mice have taken up residence under their floorboards.

Definition take up in American English