✅ Definition: What Does Take at One’s Word Mean?
To take someone at their word means to believe what they say and act as if it is true—without demanding proof or questioning their sincerity.
In simpler terms:
You trust that the person is being honest and accept their statement exactly as they said it.
📚 Origin and Background of Take at One’s Word
The idiom take at one’s word dates back to at least the 17th century and comes from the idea of “taking someone” based on the value of their word alone. In earlier times, before written contracts were common, a person’s word was often their bond—so accepting someone's statement was a sign of trust.
🕰 When and How Is Take at One’s Word Used?
This idiom is commonly used:
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In both casual and formal conversations
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When someone makes a promise or a claim
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To show trust or point out misplaced trust
It’s often followed by an action resulting from the belief in that statement.
🔹 Example:
“She said she could fix the sink, so I took her at her word—and now my kitchen is flooded.”
🎭 Tone and Formality
Take at one’s word is neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It can sound trusting, skeptical, or even sarcastic—depending on the delivery and situation.
✍️ 5 Original Sentence Examples of Take at One’s Word
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I told him I’d handle the report, and he took me at my word—now I actually have to finish it!
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Never take a magician at his word—there’s always a trick up his sleeve.
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She promised to return the money by Friday, so I took her at her word.
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If you take your dog at his word, he’ll convince you he hasn’t eaten in days!
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They took the contractor at his word, only to find out he never got a building permit.
🧠 Tips to Remember Take at One’s Word
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Think of “word” = promise – You’re holding the person to what they say.
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Imagine accepting someone’s sentence like a signed contract.
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Visual cue: Someone handing you a word on a silver platter—and you taking it!
😂 A Funny Story to Make It Memorable
Little Timmy told his older brother, “I’m totally ready to babysit the dog.” His brother took him at his word and left for the weekend.
The result?
The dog threw a party, the goldfish got dyed blue, and the house now smells like bacon-scented candles.
Moral of the story? Be careful who you take at their word—especially if they’re still in elementary school!
🧭 Explore More Idioms!
Learning idioms adds color and character to your English! If you enjoyed this post on take at one’s word, check out our other fun idiom explanations like “Hit the Nail on the Head” or “Bite the Bullet”. You’ll never run out of ways to sound like a native speaker!