By the end of the day, he had already taken leave from the office to catch the last train.

Many students have taken the meaning of the proverb too literally, missing its ironic point.

She had taken the point during the discussion but didn't bring it up again.

Although several critics had taken exception to the proposal, the committee approved it by a narrow margin.

Although the roast was harsh, Maria had taken a joke better than anyone expected.

By the time the presenter finished, I had taken notes so I wouldn't forget the key statistics.

I've taken the liberty of reserving a table for us at the new restaurant tonight.

Several committee members had taken umbrage at the suggestion and left the meeting in silence.

The editor had taken liberties with the author's original text, adding details that changed the story's tone.

The evidence had been taken away before the inspector arrived, leaving us with few clues.