"take action" vs "take an action"

Question

"take action" vs "take an action"

Both "take an action" and "take action" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Take an action" is used when referring to a specific action or decision, while "take action" is used to indicate the general idea of doing something in response to a situation.

Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Use "take action" when you want to convey the idea of responding to a situation by doing something.

Examples:

The government needs to take action to address the climate crisis.
It's time to take action and stand up for what is right.
The organization decided to take action against discrimination.
We must take action to prevent further damage.
The company will take action to improve customer satisfaction.

Alternatives:

take steps
make a move
respond appropriately
act decisively
address the issue

Use "take an action" when you want to emphasize a particular action or decision that needs to be taken in response to a situation.

Examples:

The committee will take an action on the proposal tomorrow.
We need to take an action to address this issue.
He decided to take an action against the unfair treatment.
It's time to take an action and make a change.
The manager will take an action to resolve the conflict.

Alternatives:

take action
make a decision
make a move
take steps
respond appropriately

Answer 1

take action

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate the general idea of doing something in response to a situation.

Answer 2

take an action

This phrase is correct and commonly used when referring to a specific action or decision that needs to be taken.

"take action" vs "take an action"

take action

take an action

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