Take charge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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take charge

[teɪk tʃɑːdʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

leadership

To take control and responsibility for something; to assume a position of authority or leadership.

Synonyms

assume control, lead, take command.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
take charge	Best for situations where someone steps up to handle or oversee a task or situation, often spontaneously or in response to an immediate need. When the team leader fell ill, Emily took charge of the project. He noticed the chaos and took charge to organize the event.
assume control	Suitable for formal or professional settings, typically when someone officially takes on a role or responsibility that involves overseeing others. After the resignation of the CEO, John will assume control of the company. She assumed control of the meeting when the manager was delayed.
take command	Often used in military or high-stakes scenarios where authority and decisive action are required. The captain took command of the ship during the storm. In the midst of the crisis, she took command and issued clear orders.
lead	Used when guiding or directing a team or group, often implying inspiration, influence, and long-term guidance. She leads the marketing team with great enthusiasm. He has the ability to lead the organization through challenging times.

Examples of usage

He decided to take charge of the project and ensure its success.
After the manager left, she had to take charge and make important decisions.
The new CEO will take charge of the company next month.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

responsibility

The act of assuming control or leadership; the responsibility for making decisions and directing others.

Synonyms

control, leadership, responsibility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
take charge	This term is best used when someone is stepping in to manage or direct a situation or group actively. It implies initiating action and making decisions. When the team leader was absent, Sarah decided to take charge and lead the meeting. In an emergency, it is important for someone to take charge to ensure everyone stays safe.
responsibility	This term is best used when referring to the state or duty of being accountable for something. It implies a moral or legal obligation to ensure something gets done. As a team member, it is your responsibility to complete your tasks on time. Parents have the responsibility to care for and nurture their children.
leadership	Use this word to describe the role or quality of leading a group or organization. It often implies vision, guidance, and inspiration. His leadership during the project was crucial to its success. The company thrives under her strong and innovative leadership.
control	This word is appropriate when referring to having power or authority over a situation, person, or object. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if it implies excessive or oppressive dominance. She struggled to maintain control over her emotions during the stressful event. The manager needs to control the budget to prevent overspending.

Examples of usage

She was given charge of the department after the previous manager retired.
The team worked well under his charge and completed the project ahead of schedule.
It was his charge to ensure the safety of all employees in the building.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Taking charge can boost self-confidence and is often associated with having a proactive mindset.
Research suggests that people who take charge in situations tend to perform better in both personal and professional settings, as they feel more empowered.

Pop Culture

In films, characters who take charge are often seen as heroes or leaders, influencing others to follow their vision.
Books and movies about leadership frequently highlight the importance of taking charge as a key leadership quality.

Education

In schools, encouraging students to take charge of their learning helps them develop independence and critical thinking skills.
Teachers often use group activities to help students practice taking charge, which can improve teamwork and communication.

Business

In the corporate world, leadership training often emphasizes the importance of employees taking charge to foster innovation and growth.
Successful managers are those who empower their teams to take charge of projects, leading to increased productivity and morale.

Origin of 'take charge'

Main points about word origin

The phrase combines 'take,' meaning to grab or obtain, with 'charge,' which can refer to responsibility or control.
Originally, 'to take charge' evolved from military language where leaders were expected to direct and manage troops.

The phrase 'take charge' originated in the early 19th century and is derived from the combination of 'take' (to assume control) and 'charge' (responsibility, leadership). It emphasizes the idea of taking control and responsibility for a situation or task, often in a proactive and assertive manner.