take it easy: meaning and explanation
Take it easy is an informal way of saying relax. e.g. You’ve been working so hard, it will be nice for you to take it easy for a bit.
In other situations, take it easy can mean calm down or stay calm. e.g. Hey, take it easy. I’m sure he didn’t mean to insult you.
Take it easy can also be used as a way of saying goodbye. e.g. Thanks for having us over. Take it easy!
Have a go at these micro-dictation exercises to hear this expression being used in context – how much can you understand?
Listening exercises
Micro-listening #1
Accent: England (RP)
About the sentence
…It’s been a very hectic week…
Hectic = stressful or busy. e.g. I doubt I’ll have time to chat later on – I’ve got a very hectic schedule today.
Micro-listening #2
Accent: North America
About the sentence
…I’m worried you’re going to burn out…
The phrasal verb to burn out means to become exhausted, usually after a long period of intense work or stress. You can learn more about this phrasal verb here.
Micro-listening #3
Accent: Australia
About the sentence
…money is just too tight…
When we don’t have much spare money, or that our budget can only just cover our expenses, we can say that money is tight. e.g. If money weren’t so tight then I’d definitely get an electric car.
Extra practice
Here are some questions/links to help you learn the new vocabulary:
- When was the last time you decided to take it easy? What did you do to relax?
Photo by Rob Mulally on Unsplash
