take office

Assume official power

To take office is to formally assume a position of authority, especially in government or organizational leadership.

The phrase marks the moment when an elected or appointed official begins their term: The president takes office on January 20th.

It implies ceremony and legal transfer of power, distinguishing the formal start from merely winning an election.

Related

assume · assume the mantle · chancellor · go to work · come to power · transition of power · peaceful transfer · inauguration · leadership transition · presidential succession · lame duck · new administration · enter · onboarding · succeed · adopt · ascend · handover

Opposites
political/professional tenure

take officeresign

Voluntarily leave office

step down · retire · abdicate · quit · stand down

power acquisition vs. loss

take officefall from power

Sudden loss of authority

Family

take, office, takes, taken, taking, taker, takers, retake, retakes

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Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Everyday, not technical · Rated G