expression, godan verb (-ru)
decapitate; take someone's head off
Literal meaning: to cut off someone's head. Often used in historical or dramatic contexts.
戦国時代には、敵将の首を取ることが戦功とされた。
In the Warring States period, taking an enemy general's head was considered a feat of arms.
expression, godan verb (-ru)
Figurative meaning: to remove someone from a position of power, often in a ruthless or decisive manner. Idiomatic.
派閥のリーダーは、ライバルに首を取られた。
The faction leader was toppled by a rival.