take a/its toll

phrase

: to have a serious, bad effect on someone or something : to cause harm or damage

If you keep working so hard, the stress will eventually take its toll.

—often + on

Too much sunlight can take a (heavy) toll on your skin.

Her illness has taken a toll on her marriage.

Examples of take a/its toll in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Unseasonably warm temperatures continue to take a toll on Colorado's snowpack, raising concerns about dangerous avalanche conditions across the high country. — Callie Zanandrie, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026

That number could increase, as the Iran war is also expected to take a toll on natural gas costs. — Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026

While certain types of technology can enhance the way children learn and socialize, excessive screen use can take a toll on their bodies, minds, and relationships. — Katherine Lee, Parents, 13 Mar. 2026

Dealing with these inevitable changes can take a toll on self esteem and perhaps sway you to turn to pricey treatments and expensive skincare. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2026