What Does “Be taken with sth” Mean?
“Be taken with sth” means to like or be attracted to something or someone. It expresses a strong positive impression or interest.
Introduction
The phrase “Be taken with sth” is a common English expression used to show that someone likes or is impressed by something. When you say you are “taken with” an idea, a person, or an object, it means you find it appealing or charming. This phrase is often used in everyday conversations and writing to describe feelings of admiration or attraction. Understanding the Be taken with sth meaning will help you express your likes and interests more naturally in English.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: Be taken with something
- Type: Intransitive (no object after the verb “be taken”)
- Level: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
- Short meaning: To like or be attracted to something or someone
Structure (Grammar Rules)
The phrase “Be taken with sth” is inseparable. It always follows the pattern:
- Be + taken + with + something/someone
Examples of the pattern:
- She is taken with the new book.
- They were taken with his performance.
Note: “Be taken” is a passive form, so it must be followed by “with” and then the object of attraction.
How to Use Be taken with sth?
You use “Be taken with sth” to express a positive reaction or affection toward a person, idea, or thing. It often describes a first impression or a sudden liking. It can refer to feelings about:
- People (someone’s personality or appearance)
- Objects (like a gift or artwork)
- Ideas or experiences (such as a story or event)
This phrase is usually used in formal or neutral contexts, but it can fit casual speech as well.
Examples
Here are some natural sentences using “Be taken with sth in a sentence”:
- When I met her, I was immediately taken with her kindness.
- He was taken with the beautiful scenery during his trip.
- Many people are taken with the new design of the smartphone.
- She was taken with the idea of starting her own business.
- They were clearly taken with the artist’s unique style.
Common Mistakes
Sometimes learners confuse “Be taken with sth” with other similar expressions. Here are some common errors:
- Incorrect: I am taken by this book.
Correct: I am taken with this book. - Incorrect: She is taken to the idea.
Correct: She is taken with the idea. - Incorrect: They were taken on the new movie.
Correct: They were taken with the new movie.
Remember, the correct preposition after “be taken” is always “with.”
Differences / Synonyms
Other phrases similar to “Be taken with sth” include:
- Be fond of: More general liking or affection.
Example: She is fond of chocolate. - Be attracted to: Often used for romantic or physical attraction.
Example: He is attracted to her personality. - Take to: To begin to like someone or something.
Example: I took to the new teacher quickly.
While “be taken with” usually describes a stronger, often immediate positive impression, “be fond of” is softer and longer-lasting. “Be attracted to” is more specific to attraction, often romantic. “Take to” implies a developing liking over time.
Common Collocations
People often use “Be taken with” with certain nouns. Here are common collocations and their meanings:
- Be taken with an idea: To like or be impressed by a concept.
- Be taken with a person: To be attracted or charmed by someone.
- Be taken with a place: To find a location appealing or beautiful.
- Be taken with a gift: To appreciate a present.
- Be taken with a story: To enjoy or be fascinated by a narrative.
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of be taken with sth:
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a short conversation using “Be taken with sth”:
Anna: Did you see the new art exhibition?
Tom: Yes, I was really taken with the paintings. They were amazing.
Anna: I agree. The colors and details caught my attention immediately.
Practice
Try to fill in the blanks with the correct form of “Be taken with sth”:
- She ________ with the idea of traveling to Japan next year.
- They were ________ with the new restaurant downtown.
- I am really ________ with his style of writing.
- He wasn’t ________ with the movie as much as I thought.
(Answers: is taken, taken, taken, taken)
FAQ
- What does “Be taken with sth” mean? It means to like or be attracted to something or someone.
- Is “Be taken with sth” formal or informal? It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- Can I use “Be taken with” for people? Yes, it often describes being attracted or charmed by a person.
- What preposition follows “Be taken”? Always use “with” after “Be taken.”
- Is “Be taken with sth” separable? No, it is inseparable; the verb and preposition always stay together.
