take place
/teɪk pleɪs/
Meaning
This expression is used to say that an event, meeting, or scheduled activity happens or occurs. It is typically used for things that are planned in advance rather than happening by accident. You can use it in both everyday conversations and more formal writing.
Examples
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The annual music festival will take place in the city park next weekend.
The annual music festival will take place in the city park next weekend.
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Where does the graduation ceremony take place this year?
Where does the graduation ceremony take place this year?
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Most of the story takes place in a small mountain village in Italy.
Most of the story takes place in a small mountain village in Italy.
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The meeting took place yesterday afternoon, but nothing was decided.
The meeting took place yesterday afternoon, but nothing was decided.
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Important historical events took place right here on these streets.
Important historical events took place right here on these streets.
Common Mistakes
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✗ The car accident took place on the highway yesterday.
✓ The car accident happened on the highway yesterday.
'Take place' is reserved for planned, scheduled events. For unplanned events or accidents, use 'happen' or 'occur'.
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✗ When is the concert taking place of?
✓ When is the concert taking place?
Do not confuse 'take place' (to happen) with the phrase 'take the place of' (to substitute or replace someone).
Related Expressions
Practice
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The Olympic Games ___ every four years in different countries.
💡 happens or is held
Show answer
take place
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I am not sure where the wedding will ___.
💡 occur/be held
Show answer
take place