take sth to heart

/tˈeɪk ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ tə hˈɑːt/

/tˈeɪk ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ tə hˈɑːɹt/

[phrase]

to take sth to heart

[PHRASE]

to take advice or criticism very seriously and let it greatly influence one's decisions

synonyms : attend to

antonyms : neglect

to [take] {sth} to heart definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "take something to heart" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "take something to heart" can be traced back to the Middle Ages. The concept of the heart as the seat of emotions and feelings has long been associated with deep emotional involvement. The phrase evolved from the belief that the heart was not only the physical organ but also the center of one's emotions and innermost thoughts. The idiom is commonly used in personal growth, self-reflection, and interpersonal relationships, emphasizing the emotional investment and sincere consideration of the matter at hand. It conveys the idea of deeply valuing and being influenced by the significance of the information or experience.

Examples

1. He could have taken this criticism to heart since he built his reputation on being a good manager.

2. And watching Chris work in the suit and taking that advice to heart was really helpful for me in my training.

3. Nobody ever appointed her, and she took it to heart.

4. The US has certainly taken this concept to heart and has put quite a lot of work into trying to flatten out their loss of strength gradient.

Nearby words