Common Mistakes in English Grammar: Take Away vs Takeaway

One of the most common pitfalls of English grammar is confusing the correct spelling and usage of words that sound the same but have different meanings. One such example is the phrase "take away" versus the noun "takeaway." In this article, we will explore the correct spelling and usage of these terms and provide examples to help clear up any confusion.

Take Away (two words)

The term "take away" is a verb phrase that means to remove or carry something from one place to another. It is used to describe the action of physically taking or moving something away. Here are a few examples of "take away" being used in sentences:

• Can you take away this empty plate, please?
• I need to take away these books and organize them on the shelf.
• The waitress asked if we wanted to take away our leftovers.

Takeaway (one word)

On the other hand, "takeaway" is a noun that refers to prepared food that is intended to be eaten off the premises, often referring to a restaurant or a food delivery service. It is commonly used in British English. Here are a few examples of "takeaway" being used in sentences:

• Let's order some Chinese takeaway for dinner tonight.
• I love the Indian takeaway from the restaurant down the street.
• She opened a new takeaway shop that specializes in vegan cuisine.

Now that we understand the difference between "take away" and "takeaway," it's important to note that both spellings are correct, but they have distinct uses and meanings. If you are referring to the action of physically removing something, then use "take away" as a verb phrase. If you are talking about prepared food to be eaten elsewhere, then use "takeaway" as a noun.

To avoid confusion and ensure your writing is grammatically correct, you may consider using a tool such as Linguix grammar checker. It helps identify and correct common grammar mistakes, including the correct usage of words like "take away" and "takeaway."