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give or take
01
used to say that the amount mentioned might be a little more or less than the exact amount
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "give or take" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "give or take" is rooted in its literal meaning. Its origins are not tied to a particular historical event or source, as it essentially reflects the idea of allowing for some level of flexibility or approximation when discussing numerical values. It is used to indicate a degree of flexibility or approximation in numerical values. The phrase suggests that the specified quantity can be somewhat more or less than the exact figure provided.
Example
The car's fuel efficiency is about 30 miles per gallon, give or take a mile or two depending on driving conditions.
The recipe calls for 2 cups of sugar, give or take a tablespoon.
The repairs will cost just about $500, give or take.
She estimated the project would cost around $10,000, give or take a few hundred dollars depending on material prices.
The meeting is scheduled for 3:00 PM, give or take a few minutes for potential delays.
