What Does "Have Taken To" Mean?
The phrase "have taken to" is a present perfect construction often used to describe a recent development or habit that someone has started and continues to do.
It typically conveys that someone has begun liking, doing, or engaging in something regularly—often with a sense of enthusiasm or natural inclination.
Common Usage Examples
- She has taken to painting in her free time.
- He has taken to jogging every morning.
- The cat has taken to sleeping on the windowsill.
- They have taken to calling each other every weekend.
Grammar Notes
- "Have taken to" is followed by a noun or a verb in the -ing form (gerund).
- It is part of the present perfect tense: subject + have/has + past participle ("taken") + to + gerund/noun.
- Often implies a change in behavior or attitude that feels natural or effortless.
Tips for Learners
When learning this phrase, remember:
- Don’t confuse it with “take to” in the simple present (e.g., “I take to challenges easily”).
- “Have taken to” emphasizes an action that began in the past and continues now.
- It’s commonly used in informal and conversational English.