🌟 Take It from Me, (You Can) 🌟
Definition: Accept it on my say-so. This very modern-sounding phrase actually was in use in the seventeenth century.
Historical Context:
Who knew this phrase would give William Shakespeare a run for his money in terms of longevity? Thomas Wentworth, the Earl of Stratford, proudly sported it in a letter (circa 1641) to King Charles I: “He is young, but, take it from me, a very staid head.”
Related Terms and Similar Expressions
- Believe you me: A humorous yet assertive way of saying, “Trust what I am saying.”
- Take my word for it: A simpler, no-strings-attached way of requesting belief.
- Trust me: No, it’s not from a dodgy salesperson—though it might feel like it sometimes.
- You can bet on it: For those high-stakes conversations.
- Mark my words: Ideal for making dramatic proclamations.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Trust me
- Believe you me
- Take my word for it
- Rest assured
Antonyms:
- Don’t believe me
- Doubt what I say
- Question it
- Be skeptical
Humor-Filled Quips:
“Take it from me—unlike my gym routine, this information is rock-solid dependable.”
“Take it from me: Gravity is not just a suggestion; it’s the law!”
Proverbs and References:
Proverbs:
- “Seeing is believing:” Sometimes visuals trump words (unless you’re a Victorian gentleman also known as a “visual liar”).
- “Actions speak louder than words:” Trust deeds over declarations, especially if someone’s had a suspiciously long chat with their lawyer.
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
Books:
- “Trust Me, I’m Lying” by Ryan Holiday
- “Take It on My Word” by Susan Strum
Songs:
- “Take My Word for It” by The Weepies
- “Trust Me” by Janis Joplin
Poetry:
- “Oh, to be Honest” by William Swellington
- “Faith in Fare” by Marianne Blithe
Movies:
- “Trust Me” (2013) featuring the often-quotable Clark Gregg.
- “Take It from Me!” (fictitious, of course, but wouldn’t it be fun if it starred Morgan Freeman as the unflappable truth-teller?)
Quizzes
That’s all for our nifty, time-traveling phrase Take It from Me, (You Can).
Till next time, trust your language journey, revel in your words, and remember: every phrase has a tale. 🌈
— E. L. Quirk, October 2023
