Meaning
The phrasal verb "take up with somebody" means to begin spending time with someone regularly, often implying a new friendship, romantic relationship, or association—sometimes with a negative connotation (e.g., associating with questionable people).
Examples
After moving to the city, she took up with a group of artists.
His parents were worried he’d taken up with the wrong crowd.
He suddenly took up with an old colleague and started a business together.
Usage Notes
This expression is informal and more common in spoken English. It often carries a nuance of surprise or concern, especially when used in contexts like “taking up with the wrong people.” However, it can also be neutral or positive depending on context.
Note: Do not confuse this with “take up” (meaning to start a hobby) or “take up with” + object (e.g., “take up with a cause”), which are different usages.