The Bear on the Stairs

Contrast: LEAVE OUT OF ACCOUNT. [take issue with]{v. phr.} To be openly against; speak against; disagree with. /He thought his boss was wrong but was afraid to take issue with him on the matter./ [take it]{v. phr.} 1. To get an idea or impression; understand from what is said or done.Usually used with "I". /I take it from your silence that you dont want to go./ 2. {informal} To bear trouble, hard work, criticism; not give up or weaken. /Henry could criticize and tease other boys, but he couldnt take it himself./ /Bob lost his job and his girl in the same week, and we all admired the way he took it./ [take it all in]{v. phr.} To absorb completely; listen attentively. /Bills piano music filled the room and we took it all in with admiration./ [take it away]{v. phr.}, {informal}, {Theatrical expression} Youre on; its your turn; youre next. /And here comes that wonderful comedian, Bob Hope. The announcer said, "Take it away. Bob."/ [take it easy]{v. phr.}, {informal} 1. or [go easy] or [take things easy] To go or act slowly, carefully, and gently.Often used with "on". /Take it easy. The roads are icy./ /"Go easy," said Billy to the other boys carrying the table down the stairs./ /"Take it easy on John and dont scold him too much," said Mrs. Jones to Mr. Jones./ /Go easy on the cake. There isnt much left./ 2. or [take things easy] To avoid hard work or worry; have an easy time; live in comfort. /The doctor said that Bob would have to take things easy for awhile after he had his tonsils out./ /Barbara likes to take it easy./ /Grandfather will retire from his job next year and take things easy./ /Mr ...»