Take place Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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take place

[teษชk pleษชs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in a location

To happen or occur, especially in a specified place or setting. It can refer to events, actions, or situations that occur at a particular time and location.

Synonyms

happen, occur, occur, transpire.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
take place

This phrase is used when referring to planned or scheduled events.

  • The concert will take place next Friday.
  • The meeting took place in the conference room.
occur

This word is often used in more formal or scientific contexts, especially for events that happen naturally or for incidents.

  • A solar eclipse will occur next month.
  • Many accidents occur due to human error.
happen

Use this word for both planned and unplanned events and actions, often with a neutral or slightly informal tone.

  • Unexpected things happen all the time.
  • What happened at the party last night?
transpire

This word is formal and sometimes used sarcastically or humorously in casual conversation. It often implies that something has been revealed or discovered.

  • It transpired that the rumors were true.

Examples of usage

  • The meeting will take place in the conference room.
  • The concert took place at the stadium last night.
Context #2 | Verb

in a sequence

To assume or occupy a position in a series of events or steps. It can refer to the order in which events occur or the progression of a process.

Synonyms

happen, occur, occur.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
take place

Used to describe planned or scheduled events.

  • The concert will take place next Saturday.
  • The meeting took place at the conference room.
occur

Commonly used in formal or scientific contexts.

  • Earthquakes occur frequently in this region.
  • The incident occurred at midnight.
happen

Used to describe sudden or unexpected events.

  • What happened here?
  • An accident happened on the highway.

Examples of usage

  • The final exam will take place after the completion of all coursework.
  • The competition will take place over the course of three days.
Context #3 | Verb

as a substitute

To act or serve as a replacement or stand-in for someone or something else. It can refer to filling a role or function in the absence of the usual occupant.

Synonyms

replace, stand-in, substitute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
take place

Use 'take place' to describe an event or occurrence happening at a specific time or location.

  • The conference will take place in the main hall.
  • When does the ceremony take place?
substitute

Use 'substitute' when you want to indicate that one thing or person is used instead of another, often as a temporary measure.

  • You can substitute butter with margarine in this recipe.
  • He was called in as a substitute teacher for today.
stand-in

Use 'stand-in' when referring to a person who temporarily takes the place of someone else, usually in a professional setting. This phrase is informal.

  • During his vacation, Kara will act as the stand-in for the CEO.
  • The understudy is often used as a stand-in for the lead actor.
replace

Use 'replace' when you are talking about putting something new or different in the position of something else that no longer works or is needed.

  • We need to replace the old printer with a new one.
  • She will replace the outgoing manager next month.

Examples of usage

  • During her absence, I will take her place in the presentation.
  • The substitute teacher will take place of the regular teacher for today.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • In different cultures, events like festivals or ceremonies often emphasize the significance of when and where they take place.
  • Films and plays are often described by the events or actions that take place, highlighting their narrative structure.
  • In historical contexts, the phrase is often used to refer to important events occurring in critical locations, such as battles or treaties.

Psychology

  • The anticipation of when something will take place can affect emotional well-being, with positive events boosting happiness.
  • Research in psychology shows that the context of where an event takes place can influence human behavior and perception.
  • Mindfulness techniques often stress the importance of being present during an event, ensuring its occurrence is fully appreciated.

Literature

  • In storytelling, a crucial element is where and when events take place, setting the tone and influencing characters' development.
  • Classic novels often open with a description of the setting to prepare readers for the events that will take place.
  • Narrative techniques such as flashbacks can alter the perception of when events take place, adding depth to the story.

Origin of 'take place'

Main points about word origin

  • The phrase 'take place' dates back to the 14th century, combining 'take' (to receive or seize) and 'place' (a specific location or position).
  • The use of 'take' in this context is idiomatic, evolving over time to mean to occur or happen.
  • It has variants in many languages, showing how universally the idea of events happening is communicated.

The phrase 'take place' originated in the 16th century and is derived from the Middle English word 'taken' meaning 'to seize' and the Old French word 'placer' meaning 'to place'. Over time, it evolved to refer to events or actions happening in a specific location or sequence. The expression has been widely used in English literature and everyday language to describe the occurrence or unfolding of events.