Understanding the difference between taken and taking is essential for speaking and writing correct English. Although both words come from the verb take, they serve different grammatical purposes and are used in different situations. Learning when to use taken and taking will help you communicate more clearly, avoid common grammar mistakes, and improve your confidence in everyday conversations and writing.
Comparison Overview
Both taken and taking are forms of the verb take, but they are not interchangeable. Taken is the past participle of take and is mainly used with helping verbs such as has, have, had, was, and were. Taking is the present participle (or gerund) form and is used in continuous tenses or as a noun.
| Feature | Taken | Taking |
| Verb Form | Past participle | Present participle / Gerund |
| Common Use | Perfect and passive tenses | Continuous tenses and noun form |
| Requires Helping Verb? | Yes, usually | Often with “be” or used alone as a noun |
| Time Reference | Completed action | Ongoing action |
| Example | She has taken the book. | She is taking the book. |
Definition of Taken
Taken is the past participle of the irregular verb take. It describes an action that has already been completed or something that has been received, accepted, removed, or captured. As a past participle, taken usually appears with auxiliary verbs like has, have, had, is, was, or were.
Core Meaning
The word taken refers to something that has already happened or has been completed.
Purpose
It is commonly used in:
- Present perfect tense
- Past perfect tense
- Passive voice
- Adjective-like expressions
Examples
- She has taken my notebook.
- The train had taken a different route.
- The picture was taken yesterday.
- He has taken responsibility for the mistake.
- All the seats are taken.
Definition of Taking
Taking is the present participle and gerund form of take. It describes an action that is happening now or continuing over a period of time. It can also function as a noun.
Core Meaning
The word taking refers to an action that is in progress or the act of doing something.
Purpose
It is used in:
- Continuous verb tenses
- Gerunds (verb acting as a noun)
- Participial phrases
Examples
- She is taking notes during the lecture.
- They were taking photographs.
- Taking regular breaks improves productivity.
- We are taking the bus today.
- He enjoys taking long walks.
Main Differences Between Taken and Taking
Although both words come from the same base verb, they perform different grammatical functions and express different meanings.
| Aspect | Taken | Taking |
| Verb Form | Past participle | Present participle / Gerund |
| Indicates | Completed action | Ongoing action |
| Used In | Perfect and passive tenses | Continuous tenses |
| Can Function As Noun? | No | Yes |
| Common Helping Verbs | Has, Have, Had, Was, Were | Am, Is, Are, Was, Were |
| Example | I have taken the test. | I am taking the test. |
Key Differences
- Taken describes an action that is already complete.
- Taking describes an action that is currently happening.
- Taken almost always needs a helping verb.
- Taking can act as both a verb and a noun.
- Taken is often used in passive constructions.
- Taking commonly appears in progressive tenses.
Verb Forms of “Take”
Knowing all forms of the verb helps you understand exactly where taken and taking fit.
| Verb Form | Word |
| Base Form | Take |
| Third Person Singular | Takes |
| Simple Past | Took |
| Past Participle | Taken |
| Present Participle | Taking |
Example Through All Forms
- I take the train every day.
- She takes the bus to school.
- Yesterday I took a taxi.
- I have taken many trips this year.
- I am taking my final exam today.
Common Situations Where They Appear
When “Taken” Is Common
You’ll usually see taken in situations involving completed actions.
Examples include:
- Has taken
- Have taken
- Had taken
- Was taken
- Were taken
Example sentences:
- She has taken the medicine.
- The documents were taken by the police.
- He had taken my advice before leaving.
When “Taking” Is Common
You’ll usually see taking when an activity is happening right now.
Examples include:
- Is taking
- Are taking
- Was taking
- Were taking
- Taking as a noun
Example sentences:
- She is taking an online course.
- They are taking part in the competition.
- Taking notes helps memory.
Common Expressions Using Taken and Taking
Learning common phrases makes these words easier to remember.
Expressions with Taken
- Taken seriously
- Taken away
- Taken care of
- Taken into account
- Taken by surprise
- Taken for granted
- Taken over
- Taken responsibility
Example:
- Your opinion should be taken seriously.
Expressions with Taking
- Taking action
- Taking notes
- Taking part
- Taking responsibility
- Taking care
- Taking advantage
- Taking time
- Taking chances
Example:
- The company is taking action to solve the problem.
Grammar Guide
Understanding the grammar behind taken and taking makes it much easier to choose the correct word in any sentence.
How Each Term Is Used in Sentences
Using Taken
Taken is the past participle of the verb take. It is not usually used alone as the main verb. Instead, it appears with helping verbs such as has, have, had, is, was, or were.
Sentence Patterns
- Subject + has/have + taken + object
- Subject + had + taken + object
- Subject + is/was/were + taken + by + agent
Examples
- I have taken the exam.
- She has taken the wrong train.
- They had taken all the supplies.
- The painting was taken from the museum.
- The advice has been taken seriously.
Using Taking
Taking is the present participle and can also act as a gerund (a verb functioning as a noun).
Sentence Patterns
- Subject + am/is/are + taking + object
- Subject + was/were + taking + object
- Taking + object + verb
Examples
- She is taking a driving lesson.
- We are taking our time.
- They were taking pictures.
- Taking notes improves learning.
- He enjoys taking photographs.
Common Mistakes Learners Make
Many English learners confuse these two forms because they both come from the verb take.
Mistake 1: Using “taken” without a helping verb
❌ I taken the book.
✅ I have taken the book.
Mistake 2: Using “taking” for completed actions
❌ She is taking the medicine yesterday.
✅ She took the medicine yesterday.
OR
✅ She has taken the medicine.
Mistake 3: Mixing perfect and continuous forms
❌ I have taking the class.
✅ I have taken the class.
OR
✅ I am taking the class.
Mistake 4: Confusing passive and active voice
❌ Someone taken my wallet.
✅ Someone has taken my wallet.
✅ My wallet was taken.
Mistake 5: Forgetting that “taking” can be a noun
❌ Taken notes helps.
✅ Taking notes helps.
Simple Rules to Remember
Remember these easy rules whenever you are unsure.
- Taken = completed action
- Taking = action in progress
- Taken usually follows a helping verb
- Taking follows forms of “be” in continuous tenses
- Taking can also be the subject of a sentence
- Taken cannot normally stand alone as the main verb
A simple memory trick is:
Taken = already done.
Taking = happening now.
Quick Tips for Writing and Speaking
- Use taken after has, have, had.
- Use taking after am, is, are, was, were.
- If the action is still happening, choose taking.
- If the action is finished, choose taken (with a helping verb).
- Read your sentence aloud to check whether it sounds complete.
- When writing formally, double-check perfect tense constructions.
- Notice how native speakers use these forms in books, news articles, and conversations.
- Practice with real sentences rather than memorizing isolated rules.
When to Use Each One
Choosing between taken and taking depends on whether the action is complete or ongoing.
Use Taken When:
- Referring to completed actions.
- Using the present perfect or past perfect tense.
- Writing passive voice sentences.
- Describing something already received or accepted.
- Talking about finished events.
Examples
- I have taken the final exam.
- She had taken the wrong bus.
- The documents were taken yesterday.
- He has taken responsibility.
- All the seats are taken.
Use Taking When:
- Describing an action happening now.
- Using continuous tenses.
- Referring to an activity in progress.
- Using a gerund as a noun.
- Describing ongoing habits or temporary actions.
Examples
- She is taking her lunch.
- We are taking a break.
- They were taking measurements.
- Taking exercise every day is healthy.
- He is taking an online course.
When NOT to Use Each One
Knowing incorrect situations is just as important.
Do NOT Use Taken
- As the main verb without a helping verb.
- To describe actions happening right now.
- Instead of taking in continuous tenses.
Incorrect:
- ❌ She taken the bus.
- ❌ I am taken notes.
Correct:
- ✅ She has taken the bus.
- ✅ I am taking notes.
Do NOT Use Taking
- For completed actions that require the past participle.
- After has, have, or had.
- In passive voice where taken is required.
Incorrect:
- ❌ I have taking the exam.
- ❌ The wallet was taking.
Correct:
- ✅ I have taken the exam.
- ✅ The wallet was taken.
Which One to Use (Decision Guide)
If you’re unsure which word fits, ask yourself these questions.
| Question | Use |
| Is the action happening now? | Taking |
| Has the action already finished? | Taken |
| Is it after has, have, or had? | Taken |
| Is it after am, is, are, was, or were in a continuous tense? | Taking |
| Is the word acting as a noun? | Taking |
| Is the sentence in passive voice? | Taken |
Quick Decision Checklist
Choose Taken if:
- ✔ The action is complete.
- ✔ You are using perfect tenses.
- ✔ You are writing in passive voice.
- ✔ A helping verb like has or had comes before it.
Choose Taking if:
- ✔ The action is happening now.
- ✔ You are using continuous tenses.
- ✔ The word functions as a noun.
- ✔ The activity is still in progress.
Following these simple guidelines will help you confidently choose the correct form in both spoken and written English.
Real-World Practical Examples
The best way to master taken and taking is to see how they are used in different real-life situations. The examples below cover education, daily life, business, science, technology, conversations, and more.
Taken Examples
- Education: I have taken three English courses this year.
- Daily Life: She has taken the dog for a walk already.
- Business: The manager has taken responsibility for the project’s delay.
- Science: Scientists have taken samples from the river for testing.
- Technology: The technician has taken the computer apart for repairs.
- Healthcare: The patient has taken the prescribed medicine.
- Travel: We had taken the wrong flight before realizing our mistake.
- Photography: The picture was taken during the sunset.
- Sports: The referee has taken quick action to stop the game.
- Conversation: Your advice has been taken seriously by everyone.
Taking Examples
- Education: She is taking an advanced mathematics class.
- Daily Life: I am taking the children to the park.
- Business: The company is taking steps to improve customer service.
- Science: Researchers are taking careful measurements.
- Technology: He is taking an online coding course.
- Healthcare: She is taking vitamins every morning.
- Travel: We are taking the train to Lahore.
- Photography: They are taking pictures of the mountains.
- Sports: Our team is taking part in the championship.
- Conversation: He is considering everyone’s opinions.
Self-Assessment (Fill in the Blanks)
Complete each sentence by choosing either taken or taking.
- I have ______ the wrong notebook to school.
The correct word is ______ because the action is completed. - She is ______ an online English class.
The correct word is ______ because the action is happening now. - The photograph was ______ last summer.
The correct word is ______ because it is in the passive voice. - We are ______ notes during the lecture.
The correct word is ______ because the activity is in progress. - They have ______ all the available seats.
The correct word is ______ because it follows have. - He is ______ responsibility for the project.
The correct word is ______ because the action is ongoing. - The documents were ______ by the police.
The correct word is ______ because the sentence uses passive voice. - She has ______ her medicine today.
The correct word is ______ because the action is complete. - I am ______ the bus to work today.
The correct word is ______ because it describes a current action. - They had ______ the wrong road before checking the map.
The correct word is ______ because it follows had. - My brother is ______ driving lessons this month.
The correct word is ______ because the action is continuing. - The package was ______ by the delivery company.
The correct word is ______ because it is a passive construction. - We have ______ several photos during our vacation.
The correct word is ______ because it follows have. - She is ______ part in the school competition.
The correct word is ______ because it is a continuous action. - The teacher has ______ attendance already.
The correct word is ______ because the action is finished. - They are ______ measurements for the experiment.
The correct word is ______ because the experiment is currently happening. - The decision was ______ after a long meeting.
The correct word is ______ because it describes a completed passive action. - I have ______ your suggestion into account.
The correct word is ______ because it follows have. - We are ______ our grandparents to the airport.
The correct word is ______ because the action is happening now. - The thief was ______ into custody by the police.
The correct word is ______ because the sentence is in passive voice.
Answers
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taking
- taken
- taken
- taking
- taken
Final Verdict
Both taken and taking are important forms of the verb take, but they serve different grammatical purposes. Taken is the past participle, used mainly in perfect tenses and passive voice to describe actions that have already been completed. Taking is the present participle and gerund, used for actions that are currently in progress or when referring to an activity as a noun.
A simple way to remember the difference is this: if the action is finished, use taken (usually with a helping verb like has, have, or had). If the action is happening now or continuing, use taking. By understanding these roles and practicing with real-life examples, you’ll be able to choose the correct word naturally in both speaking and writing, making your English clearer, more accurate, and more confident.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between Taken Vs Taking becomes much easier once you know the role each word plays in English grammar. Although both come from the verb take, taken is used for completed actions as the past participle, while taking describes actions that are happening now or functions as a gerund. Choosing the correct form depends on the tense, sentence structure, and the meaning you want to express. By learning the grammar rules, comparing examples, and practicing with real-world situations, you can avoid common mistakes and write with greater confidence. Whether you’re a student, English learner, teacher, or professional writer, mastering Taken Vs Taking will improve your communication and make your sentences more accurate and natural. Keep practicing these forms in everyday conversations and writing, and soon using taken and taking correctly will become second nature.
FAQs
What is the difference between taken and taking?
Taken is the past participle of the verb take and is used for completed actions, usually with helping verbs like has or have. Taking is the present participle and describes actions that are happening now or acts as a gerund, which functions as a noun in a sentence.
Is taken a verb or an adjective?
Taken is primarily the past participle form of the verb take. However, it can also function like an adjective in expressions such as “The seat is taken” or “She looked completely taken by surprise,” where it describes a state or condition.
Can taking be used as a noun?
Yes, taking can be used as a gerund, which is a verb acting as a noun. For example, in the sentence “Taking notes helps you remember information,” the word taking is the subject of the sentence and functions as a noun.
Why can’t I say “I have taking”?
The phrase I have taking is grammatically incorrect because the verb have must be followed by a past participle. The correct sentence is I have taken. Use taking only with forms of the verb be, such as am taking or is taking.
When should I use taken?
Use taken when talking about completed actions in perfect tenses or passive voice. It usually follows helping verbs like has, have, had, was, or were. Examples include “She has taken the test” and “The photo was taken yesterday.”
When should I use taking?
Use taking for actions that are happening right now or continuing over time. It is commonly used in continuous tenses, such as “They are taking a break,” and as a gerund in sentences like “Taking exercise daily is beneficial.”
Is taken used in the passive voice?
Yes, taken is frequently used in the passive voice because it is the past participle form of take. Examples include “The books were taken from the shelf” and “The picture was taken by a professional photographer.”
What tense uses taking?
Taking is used in continuous or progressive tenses, including the present continuous, past continuous, and future continuous. Examples are “She is taking a course,” “They were taking notes,” and “We will be taking the train tomorrow.”
How can I remember the difference between taken and taking?
A simple way to remember is that taken refers to something already completed, while taking refers to something currently happening. If you see helping verbs like has or have, choose taken. If you see am, is, or are, choose taking.
Are taken and taking interchangeable?
No, taken and taking are not interchangeable because they have different grammatical functions. Replacing one with the other often creates incorrect sentences. Always consider whether the action is completed or ongoing before deciding which form to use.
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Taken vs. taking explained with a clear guide comparing the past participle and present participle for correct English grammar usage.
