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Grammar fix

take after

resemble a family member

To look or behave like an older family member, especially a parent or relative.

phrasal verbB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Everyone says I take after my mother because we both have the same smile.family
  • In my family, I take after my grandfather, especially in the way I speak and my sense of humor.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: take after + noun (usually a person)

WrongShe takes after to her father.

RightShe takes after her father.

No 'to' — 'take after' takes the relative directly.

Patterntake after + noun (usually a person)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff She bears a strong resemblance to her mother in temperament.

Natural She really takes after her mum.

'Take after' is the everyday way to say someone resembles a relative; the formal version sounds written.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • take after + relative
    her motherhis dadtheir grandmotheryou

Don't confuse it

Do not confuse with 'look after' (to care for someone) or 'take care of'.

Try it in Daily Speak →