take time — need time
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcore
To require a certain amount of time to do something; not be quick.
Say it like a native
Textbook The process requires a considerable duration to complete.
Native It takes time to do it properly.
'Take time' is the plain natural phrase; the formal version is wordy.
Pattern: take (some/no) time (to do something)
In use
- Learning a new language takes time, so be patient with yourself.daily life
- In my opinion, building strong relationships takes time because trust doesn't develop overnight.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Learning a language takes a time.
✓ Learning a language takes time.
'Take time' (uncountable) — no 'a'.
Common collocations
take time + detail— time to heal, time to learn, your time, a long time
Don't confuse it
'Spend time' is about what you do; 'take time' is about how long something needs.