take in

To understand and remember information, especially when it is new or surprising.

• That is a lot of news to take in.
• I was tired and took in very little of the lesson.
• Have you taken in what he said?

How to use it: take something in (She explained it slowly so I could take it in.)

Similar words: understand, absorb, grasp

Common phrases: take in information, take in news

To let a person or animal live in your home, often because they need help.

• They take in stray dogs.
• My aunt took me in when I lost my flat.
• Could you take in a family for a week?

How to use it: take someone/something in (We took the abandoned kitten in.)

Similar words: shelter, house

Opposites: evict

Common phrases: take in someone, take in refugees, take in strays

To receive money from sales, work, or other sources.

• The shop takes in plenty of money.
• We took in two hundred pounds from ticket sales.
• How much did the restaurant take in yesterday?

How to use it: take something in (The shop took more money in this weekend.)

Similar words: receive, bring in

Common phrases: take in money, take in revenue

To spend time looking at or experiencing something and enjoying it.

• We stopped to take in the view.
• She took in the peaceful atmosphere of the garden.
• Let us take in the sights before lunch.

Similar words: enjoy, appreciate

Common phrases: take in scenery, take in sights, take in something

To make clothes smaller or shorter by sewing them.

• Please take in this skirt.
• The tailor took my trousers in a little.
• This dress needs taking in around the waist.

How to use it: take something in (Can you take this jacket in at the waist?)

Similar words: alter

Opposites: let out

Common phrases: take in trousers, take in something

To accept clothes or other goods to wash or repair at home for money.

• She used to take in washing.
• His grandmother took in sewing to earn extra money.
• They took in laundry from several neighbours.

Common phrases: take in washing, take in laundry, take in repairs