Taken With: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
August 18, 2023

The phrase "taken with" can be used in different contexts, each carrying its own unique meaning. When you say that someone is "taken with" something or someone, it generally means they are very attracted to or greatly interested in that person or thing. It's a way of expressing a strong liking or fascination towards something or someone. This could be a new hobby, a piece of artwork, a fascinating book, or even a charming individual.

In short:

  • "Taken with" describes a strong attraction or interest toward something or someone.

What Does "Taken With" Mean?

The phrase “taken with” primarily expresses a strong liking or attraction. If you are "taken with" something or someone, it means you are deeply attracted to them or it, whether it's a person, an object, or an idea. This phrase suggests a strong interest or deep fascination.

Let's delve into its main meanings and how it is used:

  • "Taken with" denotes a strong interest or attraction towards something or someone.
  • You use it when you want to express your deep fascination or liking for something or someone.
  • The phrase implies a strong emotional connection or interest, not just a casual liking. Being taken with something suggests being deeply attracted or captivated by it.
  • It is often used to describe the feeling of being charmed or captivated, like in "He was taken with her beauty and charm."
  • You can use it in a sentence like: "That movie hit me right in the feels, and I was taken with its profound message." This indicates a deep emotional response triggered by the movie.
  • Similar expressions include "smitten with," "enamored with," "charmed by," and "captivated by."

Where Does "Taken With" Come From?

The term "taken with" is a relatively modern phrase. Its origins can be traced back to the idea of being 'taken' or 'captured' by something or someone, indicating a strong attraction or interest. Over time, this phrase has evolved to symbolize a deep fascination or liking rather than actual physical capture. It's now commonly used to convey strong interest or attraction, even when not in a physical sense.

Historical Example

"An old fox is not easily taken with the French."

- Robert Bland, Proverbs, Chiefly Taken from the Adagia of Erasmus..., 1814

10 Examples of "Taken With" in Sentences

To give you a clearer idea about when to use this phrase, let's explore some examples from various scenarios:

  • What can I say? I'm simply taken with your charm and wit.
  • I was so taken with the beautiful dress that I couldn't resist placing an order.
  • As a history enthusiast, she was taken with the city's ancient architecture.
  • When I saw that smoke show at the party, I was immediately taken with her.
  • After reading the first chapter, I was already taken with the novel's gripping plot.
  • During our real talk, I was taken with his honesty and transparency.
  • I was instantly taken by the puppy's playful nature and adopted it.
  • After trying out the new software, our team was taken with its user-friendly interface and advanced features.
  • This style doesn't suit you at all, yet I'm still taken with your confidence.
  • After tasting the exotic cuisine, they were taken with a unique blend of flavors and textures.

Examples of "Taken With" in Pop Culture

The phrase is a mainstay in pop culture to signify a strong attraction or interest.

Let's explore some instances:

  • Holly Black uses the phrase in her book "The Stolen Heir." A character remarks, "If he's half as taken with you as you are with yourself, I imagine he'll be well pleased."
  • In Serge Bloch's "You Are What You Eat: And Other Mealtime Hazards," he uses the phrase to express a character's fascination with stories: "Stories are medicine. Since I heard my first, I have been taken with stories."
  • Arthur Miller's play "The Crucible" also uses the phrase when a character states, "I never had a wife who was so taken with books, and I sought the cause of it, d'y'see, but it wasn't a witch I blamed her for."
  • The phrase "taken with" also appears in a lighthearted context on a website called ReadBeach.com, where they present a pun related to the movie "Taken" starring Liam Neeson: "Are you the child of Liam Neeson? Because I'm taken with you."

Other/Different Ways to Say "Taken With"

There are various other expressions that convey a similar meaning to "taken with."

Here are some of them:

  • Charmed by
  • Enamored with
  • Smitten with
  • Attracted to
  • Fascinated by
  • Captivated by
  • Drawn to
  • Bewitched by
  • Entranced by
  • Engrossed in

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Taken With":

  • What does "taken with" mean?

"Taken with" is a phrase that describes being highly attracted to or interested in someone or something. It signifies a strong liking or fascination.

  • How can I use "taken with" in a sentence?

You can use it as a verb phrase in a sentence, usually followed by the object of attraction or interest. For example: “That's why I'm so taken with this city - it never fails to surprise me.
” “The moment I met her, I was taken with her and knew she was the love of my life.”

  • Where does the phrase "taken with" come from?

The term "taken with" originated from the concept of being 'taken' or 'captured' by something or someone, indicating a strong attraction or interest. Over time, this phrase has evolved to symbolize a deep fascination or liking.

  • Can you use "taken with" in both personal and professional contexts?

Yes, "taken with" can be used in both personal and professional contexts. In a personal context, it usually refers to being attracted to another person or being interested in a hobby or activity. In a professional context, it can refer to being interested in a business idea or attracted to a job opportunity.

  • Does it suggest a long-term interest or a momentary fascination?

While "taken with" can suggest a deep, long-term interest, it can also be used to describe a momentary fascination or a sudden attraction towards something or someone.

  • Is is more common in British English or American English?

"Taken with" is commonly used in both British and American English, and its usage is not particularly restricted to any one region.

  • What are some synonyms for "taken with"?

Some synonyms for "taken with" include "charmed by," "enamored with," "smitten with," "attracted to," "fascinated by," "captivated by," "drawn to," and "engrossed in."

  • Does it only refer to positive attractions?

Generally, yes. "Taken with" typically implies a positive attraction or interest. However, like any phrase, it can be used sarcastically or ironically to imply the opposite in certain contexts.

  • Can we use it to describe non-romantic attractions?

Yes, absolutely. "Taken with" can be used to describe a wide range of attractions or interests, not just romantic ones. It can refer to being fascinated by a hobby, captivated by a piece of art, or interested in a new idea, among other things.

  • Does it imply a deep emotional connection?

Not necessarily. While "taken with" often suggests a strong interest or attraction, it doesn't always imply a deep emotional connection. The depth of the implied connection largely depends on the context in which the phrase is used.

Final Thoughts About "Taken With"

The phrase "taken with" is a versatile term that expresses a strong attraction or interest toward something or someone. It's a way to convey deep fascination, whether it's towards a person, an object, an idea, or even an experience.

Here's a quick recap:

  • "Taken with" is a phrase that conveys a strong attraction or interest.
  • You can use it in a variety of contexts, from personal relationships to professional interests and from momentary fascinations to long-term passions.
  • It doesn't always imply a deep emotional connection. The depth of the implied connection largely depends on the context.

Whether you're "taken with" a charming individual, a captivating book, a fascinating hobby, or a promising business idea, this phrase is a compact and expressive way to communicate your interest or attraction.

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