How to Choose When to Use Take vs. Took

Last Updated: December 2, 2022

In English the words "take" and "took" are commonly used. If you are confused about their meaning and the difference between them, this article will help.

Steps

1
Look at the meanings and tenses of these words.^{[1]
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- TAKE means to get into one's hold or possession by voluntary action; to hold, grasp, or grip.
  - Example: "I take the book now."
- TOOK is the past-tense form of "take". Its definition is the same as the present tense.
  - Example: "I took the book yesterday."
2
Recognize the differences in the tenses of these words. Take is a present tense verb, while took is a past tense verb.^{[2]
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- The present progressive tense is "am taking," "is taking," or "are taking."
- The future tense is "shall take" or "will take".
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3
Recognize when you should use "take". Analyze when the described action takes place.^{[3]
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- When the action occurs in the present moment, use the word "take." "I take a drink now."
- When the action occurred in the past, use the word "took." "I took a drink yesterday."
- When the action will occur in the future, use the words "shall take" (first person) or "will take" (second or third person). "I shall take a drink tomorrow." "He / you will take a drink tomorrow."

Community Q&A

Question

Is "take the approval" or "took the approval" correct?

Community Answer

"Take the approval" is correct in present or future tense, as in "I take the approval" or "I will take the approval." "Took the approval" is correct in past tense, as in "I took the approval."
Question

Which one is correct: "Who take you there" or "Who took you there"?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Took.
Question

"I was in the car when I take/took this picture." Which one is correct?

Community Answer

"Took" is correct.