English collocations are an important part of natural English. Native speakers often use common verbs like “take” and “have” in fixed word combinations that sound correct and natural. Phrases such as take a break, take responsibility, have a meeting, or have a good time are used every day in conversations. Learning these collocations will help you speak more fluently and avoid unnatural translations.
In this blog post, you will explore useful collocations with “take” and “have” that are commonly used in everyday conversations. Each expression will be explained in simple language with clear examples to help you understand how to use it correctly. Whether you are improving your speaking skills, preparing for exams, or building stronger vocabulary, these collocations will help you communicate more confidently and naturally.
This topic is part of our English Collocations for English learners.
Why Are Collocations Important?
Collocations make your English sound natural.
For example, native speakers say “take a shower,” not “do a shower.” Knowing the right word combinations will help you avoid mistakes and express yourself clearly.
Let’s dive into common collocations with “take” and “have” and see how they are used in daily life.
Collocations with “Take”
The verb “take” is versatile and used in many contexts.
Here are some common collocations:
1. Take a Break
- Meaning: To rest or relax for a short time.
- Example: After working for hours, I decided to take a break and grab a coffee.
2. Take a Shower
- Meaning: To wash your body under a shower.
- Example: I always take a shower in the morning to feel refreshed.
3. Take a Seat
- Meaning: To sit down.
- Example: Please take a seat; the meeting will start soon.
4. Take Responsibility
- Meaning: To accept that you are responsible for something.
- Example: She decided to take responsibility for her actions.
5. Take Care
- Meaning: To be careful or look after someone/something.
- Example: Take care while crossing the busy street.
6. Take an Exam
- Meaning: To sit for an exam or test.
- Example: He’s nervous because he has to take an exam tomorrow.
7. Take Advice
- Meaning: To follow or accept someone’s advice.
- Example: It’s wise to take advice from experienced people.
8. Take a Chance
- Meaning: To try something risky.
- Example: Sometimes, you need to take a chance to succeed.
9. Take Notes
- Meaning: To write down important information.
- Example: During the lecture, I always take notes to review later.
10. Take a Picture
- Meaning: To photograph something.
- Example: Let’s take a picture to remember this moment.
Collocations with “Have”
The verb “have” is equally flexible and widely used.
Here are some common collocations:
1. Have a Good Time
- Meaning: To enjoy yourself.
- Example: We had a good time at the party last night.
2. Have a Meal
- Meaning: To eat.
- Example: Let’s have a meal together after work.
3. Have a Shower
- Meaning: To take a shower (interchangeable with “take a shower”).
- Example: I prefer to have a shower in the evening.
4. Have a Conversation
- Meaning: To talk with someone.
- Example: We had a long conversation about our future plans.
5. Have Fun
- Meaning: To enjoy yourself.
- Example: The kids had fun playing in the park.
6. Have a Nap
- Meaning: To sleep for a short time.
- Example: I often have a nap after lunch to recharge.
7. Have a Party
- Meaning: To organize or attend a party.
- Example: We’re going to have a party this weekend to celebrate.
8. Have a Look
- Meaning: To check or examine something.
- Example: Can you have a look at this document?
9. Have Patience
- Meaning: To stay calm and wait.
- Example: You need to have patience when dealing with children.
10. Have a Problem
- Meaning: To face an issue or difficulty.
- Example: Do you have a problem with the new schedule?
Using “Take” and “Have” in Similar Contexts
Sometimes, “take” and “have” can be used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences.
Let’s look at a few examples:
Take a Shower vs. Have a Shower
Both are correct and commonly used.
“Take a shower” is more common in American English, while “have a shower” is more frequent in British English.
Take a Break vs. Have a Break
Again, both are correct.
“Take a break” is slightly more formal, while “have a break” is often used casually.
Take a Meal vs. Have a Meal
“Have a meal” is the preferred collocation.
Native speakers rarely say “take a meal.”
Take Fun vs. Have Fun
Only “have fun” is correct.
“Take fun” is not used in English.
Practical Tips to Master Collocations
Read and Listen Regularly
Pay attention to how native speakers use “take” and “have” in conversations, books, and movies.
Practice Speaking
Try to use these collocations in your daily conversations. For example, say, “I’ll take a break now” instead of “I’ll rest now.”
Write Sentences
Write your own sentences using these collocations to reinforce your learning.
Learn in Context
Memorize collocations as part of a phrase rather than individual words. For example, remember “take a picture” as a single unit.
Use Flashcards
Create flashcards with collocations on one side and meanings or examples on the other. This is a great way to test yourself.
Quiz: Test Your Knowledge
Fill in the blanks with the correct collocations:
- I need to ______ a break after working all day.
- Let’s ______ a meal together this weekend.
- Can you ______ a look at my essay?
- We always ______ fun at the beach.
- She decided to ______ responsibility for the project.
(Answers: 1. take, 2. have, 3. have, 4. have, 5. take)
Final Thoughts
Collocations with “take” and “have” are essential for sounding natural in English.
By learning and practicing these phrases, you’ll improve your fluency and confidence.
Remember, the more you use them, the easier they’ll become.
Start incorporating these collocations into your conversations today, and watch your English skills grow!
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