Take Up With – Meaning and Examples

Have you ever needed to talk to someone about a problem—like a noisy neighbor, a billing error, or a misunderstanding at work? Or maybe you’ve started spending time with a new friend or joined a new hobby? In English, you might say you’ll take it up with them or take up with a group. This versatile phrase has two main uses: addressing an issue with someone, or beginning a relationship or activity.

What Does “Take Up With” Mean?

“Take up with” can mean two things, depending on context:
1. To address a problem or complaint with someone (e.g., “I’ll take it up with the manager”).
2. To begin spending time with someone or start a new activity (e.g., “She took up with a new group of artists” or “He took up painting”).
The phrase is practical and neutral—common in both everyday and professional English.

When to Use It

Use “take up with” in casual or professional conversations:
• When you plan to speak to someone about an issue (“I’ll take it up with HR”).
• When describing someone starting a new friendship, partnership, or habit (“He took up with a local band”).
Note: The second meaning (starting a relationship) can sometimes imply gossip or romantic involvement, so use it carefully. For hobbies, we usually say “take up [activity]” without “with” (e.g., “She took up yoga”).

Example Sentences

• If the noise continues, I’ll take it up with the landlord.
• Don’t worry—I’ll take this billing error up with customer service.
• After college, she took up with a group of environmental activists.
• He used to be quiet, but lately he’s taken up with the wrong crowd.

Mini Dialogue

Alex: “The invoice is wrong again.”

Jamie: “I’ll take it up with accounting first thing tomorrow.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t confuse “take up with” (addressing someone or starting a relationship) with “take up” (starting a hobby). Also, avoid using the relationship meaning in formal writing—it can sound vague or gossipy.

❌ Don’t say: “I took up with guitar lessons.” (Wrong structure!)
✅ Do say: “I took up guitar.” OR “I’ll take it up with the instructor.”

Final Note

Now you can use “take up with” to handle problems or describe new connections with confidence! Just remember the two meanings—and choose the one that fits your context. Keep practicing, and soon it’ll feel natural in every conversation.