take apart
/ˌteɪk əˈpɑrt/
Reviewed on
Type
Phrasal verb
Meaning
To separate something into its individual pieces or components.
He took apart the old lawnmower to see why the engine would not start.
Can you take this watch apart without losing any of the tiny screws?
To analyze and thoroughly criticize an argument, theory, or piece of work.
The defense attorney carefully took apart the prosecutor's key witness during cross-examination.
Her latest essay takes apart several common economic assumptions.
To defeat an opponent easily and completely in a contest or game.
On the quiz show, the returning champion took apart both challengers before the final round.
A skilled debater can take an unprepared opponent apart in minutes.
How it's used
When this means “dismantle something”
Both orders mean the same thing.
- take apart the engine
- take the engine apart
it and them go in the middle: “take it apart.” Not “take apart it.”
He had to take the engine apart to replace the gasket.
When this means “defeat an opponent decisively”
Both orders mean the same thing.
- take apart the rival team
- take the rival team apart
it and them go in the middle: “take them apart.” Not “take apart them.”
The champion took his opponent apart in the second round.
Collocations
- take apart piece by piece
- take apart an argument
- take apart the defense
Synonyms
- disassemble
- dismantle
- deconstruct
- demolish