Take over Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Power Shift Refers to a change in who makes decisions or leads, often in politics or business. Once the CEO retired, his successor took over swiftly. Pro Tip 2/3Hostile Context Used when someone gains control without approval, sometimes forcefully. The rebels tried to take over the capital. Pro Tip 3/3Positive Takeover Can be used positively when assuming control leads to improvement. The new manager took over and increased productivity.