take to heart: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘take to heart’ mean?
The idiom "take to heart" means to deeply and emotionally internalize something, often a criticism or advice, and allow it to affect one's thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take to the bank" means to consider something as certain or reliable, usually in the context of information or promises that can be trusted and relied upon without any doubt or hesitation.
The idiom "take to task" means to reprimand or scold someone for their actions or behavior, usually in a stern or disciplinary manner.
The idiom "take to" means to develop a liking or affinity for something or someone. It refers to one's natural inclination or willingness to engage in or enjoy a particular activity or person.
The idiom "take the cure" means to undergo a treatment, typically for an addiction or a medical condition, in order to recover or improve one's health.
The idiom "take something to the grave" means to keep a secret or piece of information hidden for one's entire life, never revealing it to anyone, even on their deathbed.
The idiom "take something in stride" means to handle or deal with something difficult or challenging in a calm and relaxed manner, without being overly affected or upset by it.
The idiom "take something as read" means to accept something as true or already understood, without further explanation or proof.
The idiom "take on" means to assume responsibility or an undertaking. It can also mean to confront or challenge someone or something.
The idiom "take lightly" means to not take something seriously or to underestimate its importance or impact.
The idiom "take kindly" means to react or respond to something in a positive or friendly manner.
Unlocking Idioms' Emotional Impact
take to heart is an idiomatic expression commonly used in American English, conveying the idea of deeply internalizing or taking something seriously. When someone takes something to heart, it means they are deeply affected by it and have a strong emotional response. This phrase is used in various contexts, both personal and professional.
The origin of this idiom is unclear, with no definitive source indicating its exact origins. However, it is likely that the phrase developed from the literal meaning of the word "heart" as the seat of emotions and deep feelings. It may also have roots in biblical or religious references, as the heart holds symbolic significance in many religious traditions.
In personal contexts, the idiom can refer to situations where individuals are deeply affected by something emotionally. For example, if someone loses a loved one and takes it to heart, it suggests that they are profoundly impacted by the loss and experience a profound sense of grief and sadness. This reflects the strong emotional response that can occur when something is taken to heart.
In addition to emotional impact, "taking something to heart" can also imply internalizing advice, guidance, or life lessons. When someone takes advice to heart, it signifies that they internalize and apply the wisdom they have received, allowing it to shape their thoughts, actions, and decisions. This demonstrates the importance of deeply considering and valuing the information provided.
The idiom is commonly used in various professional settings as well. For example, if someone gives you constructive criticism and you take it to heart, it means you consider it seriously and use it to improve yourself or your work. This highlights the idea of taking feedback seriously and using it as a tool for growth and development. Similarly, if you receive praise or positive feedback and take it to heart, it indicates that you deeply appreciate and value the recognition, recognizing the impact and significance of the positive feedback you have received.
Overall, the idiom "take to heart" encapsulates the notion of deeply internalizing, considering, and valuing something. It conveys a sense of earnestness, seriousness, and emotional investment, highlighting the profound impact that words, actions, and experiences can have on individuals. This idiom can be seen in various personal and professional contexts, serving as a way to express the depth of emotions, the significance of advice, and the value placed on feedback and recognition. While its precise origins may remain uncertain, its usage and widespread familiarity make it a ubiquitous phrase in American English.
Example usage
Examples:
- She always takes criticism to heart and gets upset about it for days.
- After her breakup, he took his friend's advice to heart and focused on self-care.
- The teacher's praise for his hard work really took to heart and motivated him to study even harder.
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