take lightly
idiom
: to not treat seriously
My doctor took my concerns lightly, telling me not to worry too much.
—usually used in negative statementsThis is a serious problem that should not be taken lightly.
Examples of take lightly in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Both nations are seen as underdogs, but have several technical and tactically-strong players whom group peers should not take lightly.
—
Julian Cardillo, Boston Herald, 5 Dec. 2025
In Cambodia, being called a traitor is not something to take lightly.
—Dan Horn, Cincinnati Enquirer, 24 Nov. 2025
Now in its tenth year, the festival has become a yearly tradition for many, which Lewis and his staff don't take lightly.
—Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2025
Raiders are an opponent the Colts could take lightly, but that first loss and the home crowd will prevent that.
—Greg Cote
october 2, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for take lightly
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Julian Cardillo, Boston Herald, 5 Dec. 2025
In Cambodia, being called a traitor is not something to take lightly.
—Dan Horn, Cincinnati Enquirer, 24 Nov. 2025
Now in its tenth year, the festival has become a yearly tradition for many, which Lewis and his staff don't take lightly.
—Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 23 Nov. 2025
Raiders are an opponent the Colts could take lightly, but that first loss and the home crowd will prevent that.
—Greg Cote
october 2, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for take lightly
Cite this Entry
“Take lightly.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20lightly. Accessed 24 Dec. 2025.
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