Translation guide
The English phrase 'taking over' can refer to assuming control, replacing someone in a role, or physically occupying a space. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these situations.
To take over a task, duty, or leadership role from someone else.
The most common and versatile verb for taking over a task, duty, or responsibility. It implies a smooth handover.
彼の仕事を引き継ぎました。
I took over his work.
プロジェクトを引き継いでくれますか？
Can you take over the project?
Similar to 引き継ぐ, but often used for inheriting traditions, legacies, or long-term responsibilities.
伝統を受け継ぐ。
To take over a tradition.
Means to substitute or replace someone in a role. Often used when taking over temporarily.
私が代わります。
I'll take over (for you).
To acquire control of a business, often through a buyout or merger.
Specifically means to acquire or buy out a company. Common in business contexts.
その会社は競合他社に買収された。
The company was taken over by a competitor.
Implies a hostile takeover or hijacking. Can be used for companies, accounts, or vehicles.
会社を乗っ取ろうとする。
To attempt to take over a company.
To fill or dominate a place, or to become the main feature.
Means to occupy or account for a certain proportion. Often used for space, time, or percentage.
仕事が生活の大部分を占めている。
Work takes over most of my life.
Means to dominate or control. Can be used when something takes over a market or a field.
その技術が市場を支配した。
The technology took over the market.
To dominate a discussion or activity, often in an unwelcome way.
Means to take charge or run the show, often used when someone takes over a meeting or event.
彼が会議を仕切った。
He took over the meeting.
Means to monopolize. Used when one person takes over a conversation and doesn't let others speak.
彼女が会話を独占した。
She took over the conversation.
引き継ぐ is used for practical handovers of tasks or duties, while 受け継ぐ is more about inheriting intangible things like traditions or will. For business acquisitions, use 買収する.
The English phrase 'take over' cannot be directly translated word-for-word. Using 取る (take) + 上 (over) would be nonsensical. Always choose the appropriate verb based on context.