take action — do something (to solve a problem or make a change)
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
To do something in order to deal with a situation, solve a problem, or make a change, instead of just thinking or talking about it.
Say it like a native
Textbook It is imperative that we implement decisive measures.
Native We need to take action.
Natural; 'implement decisive measures' is officialese.
Pattern: take action (to do something/about something/against something)
In use
- If we want to improve the environment, we need to take action now.daily life
- In my opinion, the government should take action to reduce air pollution in big cities.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ We must take actions now.
✓ We must take action now.
Usually uncountable here — 'take action', not 'actions'.
Common collocations
take action on— on, against, immediate, decisive
Don't confuse it
Different from 'take measures,' which is more formal and often used in official or written contexts.