take off
When a plane leaves the ground, or when you remove your coat, or when something suddenly starts doing really well.
Meanings
Of an aircraft, to leave the ground and begin flying.
"The flight to Tokyo took off forty minutes late due to heavy rain."
To remove a piece of clothing or accessories.
"Please take off your shoes before entering the house."
To suddenly become very successful or popular.
"Her online bakery really took off after a food blogger shared her photos."
"The company took off and now employs over 500 people."
— Common business journalism usage, widely attested
To leave quickly or suddenly.
"He took off as soon as he heard the police sirens."
One of the most common phrasal verbs in English. The aviation and clothing senses are A2 level. The 'become successful' sense is figurative and very common in business and media English. 'Take off' can also mean to mimic someone (British English, informal).
Commonly used with
Forms
Understand "take off" better
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "take off" on Looplines