take center stage

Meaning

This expression means to become the main focus of attention or the most important element in a situation. It originates from the theater, where the middle of the stage is the most visible spot. It is commonly used in entertainment, business, and daily news.

Examples

• The young violinist is about to take center stage for her solo performance.

  The young violinist is about to take center stage for her solo performance.

• Environmental issues will take center stage at the upcoming international summit.

  Environmental issues will take center stage at the upcoming international summit.

• In the new movie, the relationship between the two sisters takes center stage.

  In the new movie, the relationship between the two sisters takes center stage.

• After years of playing supporting roles, she finally took center stage in a major Broadway production.

  After years of playing supporting roles, she finally took center stage in a major Broadway production.

• Artificial intelligence took center stage during the tech conference yesterday.

  Artificial intelligence took center stage during the tech conference yesterday.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The lead actor took the center stage.

  ✓ The lead actor took center stage.

  Do not use the definite article 'the' before 'center stage' in this idiom.

• ✗ She wanted to make center stage at the party.

  ✓ She wanted to take center stage at the party.

  The correct verb to pair with this idiom is 'take', not 'make'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• During the debate, the candidate's economic plan is expected to ___.

  💡 Become the main focus.

  Show answer

  take center stage

• She worked hard for years before she finally got the chance to ___.

  💡 Be the center of attention.

  Show answer

  take center stage