Translation guide
The English phrase "take away" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: physically removing something, subtracting, taking food to go, learning a lesson, and more.
take away (remove)
take away (subtract)
take away (food)
To physically take something from someone or somewhere, often implying removal or confiscation.
Common verb meaning to take something away from someone, often by authority or force. Can also mean to confiscate or to pick up (a topic).
The teacher took away my cell phone.
To carry something away; often used for theft or removing objects from a scene.
The culprit took away the cash.
To snatch away, rob, or deprive someone of something. Stronger nuance of taking by force.
He took away my freedom.
To remove a number or amount from a total; mathematical subtraction.
To order food at a restaurant and take it elsewhere to eat.
To derive a lesson, understanding, or feeling from something.
To remove or alleviate a negative sensation or emotion.
To take a person into custody or to a place, often by police.
English 'take away' is often used metaphorically (e.g., 'What did you take away from the meeting?'). In Japanese, use verbs like 学ぶ (manabu) or 得る (eru) instead of literal removal verbs.
取り上げる often implies taking from a person's possession, sometimes by authority. 持ち去る focuses on physically carrying something away, often used in crime contexts.
The police took him away.
Can I take this away?