take one back

take back

1. To take possession of something one had previously given, lent, or lost possession of to someone else. A noun or pronoun can be used between "take" and "back." I want to take back my video game from Jerry so I can play it over the weekend. This bank foreclosed on me illegally. The way I see it, this is just taking my own money back.2. To return something one has purchased for a refund. A noun or pronoun can be used between "take" and "back." I need to take back this blender—it doesn't work when I plug it in. You can take anything you've purchased back to us within 14 days, so long as it is still unopened in its original packaging.3. To retract or rescind something one has said. A noun or pronoun can be used between "take" and "back." If you don't take that back, I'm telling Mom! The senator quickly took back his statement, claiming he had gotten confused on the issue.4. To transport one mentally or emotionally to a time in the past. A noun or pronoun is used between "take" and "back." Wow, hearing that song really takes me back!5. To accept someone back into one's life to resume a romantic relationship. A noun or pronoun can be used between "take" and "back." I can't believe you took her back after you caught her cheating on you! Gina is going to take back Benny again, I just know it.See also: back, take

take one back (to some time)

Fig. to cause one to think of a time in the past. This takes me back to the time I spent the summer in Paris. What you said really takes me back.See also: back, one, take