Last vs Take: What’s the Difference in English?
Hello English learners! Have you ever hesitated between saying that something lasts a long time or takes a long time? You’re not alone. These two verbs are often confused because both are used to talk about time, but they are used in different situations. Last vs take
In today’s lesson, we’ll break down the difference between last and take, explain how they are used, and help you choose the correct verb with confidence — especially in B2–C1 writing and speaking.
How to use “last” (duration without control)
Meaning of “last”
We use last to say that something continues for a period of time. The key idea is that we do not control the duration — it simply happens.
- The bad weather won’t last long.
- Films usually last about 90 minutes.
- How long did the meeting last?
Common prepositions with “last”
Last is commonly used with the prepositions for and until.
- This battery is designed to last for several years.
- We had enough food to last for a week.
- The course lasts for three months.
- Will the money last until the end of the holiday?
- They say the snow won’t last until morning.
- Can you last until the doctor arrives?
How to use “take” (time needed to do something)
Core meaning of “take”
Take is a very common verb with many meanings, collocations, and idiomatic uses. When we talk about time, take focuses on how much time is needed to complete an action, often one that involves human effort or control.
- My commute takes half an hour.
- It takes 15 minutes to prepare this meal.
- It takes time to learn a language well.
Other common uses of “take” (brief overview)
Although today’s focus is time, it’s helpful to remember how flexible take is: Last vs take
- I’ll take an umbrella — it’s raining.
- The guide took us around the city.
- Please take a seat.
- Don’t take people for granted.
- Will you take care of the baby?
Last vs take: the key difference explained
Both “last” and “take” can refer to time, but they answer different questions.
✔ Use take when:
You are actively involved or in control of the action.
- It takes me an hour to drive to your place.
(I’m doing the driving.) - It takes time to master a new skill.
✔ Use last when:
The duration is fixed or independent of you.
- The TV episode lasts about 30 minutes.
- The lecture lasted two hours.
Simple rule to remember:
Take = effort / action / involvement
Last = duration / no control
More example sentences (exam-friendly)
- It will take them a while to get used to the climate.
- It takes an hour to reach the coast.
- The flight to New York takes seven hours.
- The celebration lasted for two days.
- The meeting didn’t last very long.
- The conference lasted longer than expected.
Quick check (B2–C1)
Choose the correct verb:
- The journey __________ longer than we expected.
- It __________ me three hours to finish the report.
Answers: Last vs take
- lasted
- took
Final tip
If you’re ever unsure, ask yourself this question:
👉 Am I doing the action, or is the time fixed?
If you’re doing the action → take
If the time simply passes → last
If the time simply passes → last
Mastering this difference will make your English sound more precise, natural, and exam-ready.
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1 Comment
Shyam Shriram Jane · 16 Feb 2023 at 12:55 pm
Well structured