Take Account of vs. Take Into Account

Attribute	Take Account of	Take Into Account
Definition	Consider or regard something as important or significant	Consider or include something in making a decision or judgment
Usage	Commonly used in formal contexts	Commonly used in everyday language
Formality	More formal	Less formal
Meaning	To take something into consideration	To consider something as part of a decision-making process

Definition

Both "take account of" and "take into account" are idiomatic expressions that mean to consider or include something in one's decision-making process. However, there is a subtle difference in how they are used.

Usage

"Take account of" is more commonly used in British English, while "take into account" is more prevalent in American English. Both phrases are used in formal writing and speech to indicate that something has been considered or factored into a decision.

Meaning

When you "take account of" something, you are acknowledging its existence or importance. It implies a more passive form of consideration. On the other hand, when you "take into account" something, you are actively considering it as a factor in your decision-making process.

Examples

For example, if you are planning a budget for a project, you might "take account of" the various expenses involved. This means you are simply recognizing that these expenses exist. However, if you "take into account" the potential risks associated with the project, you are actively factoring them into your budgeting process.

Context

The context in which these phrases are used can also influence their meaning. "Take account of" is often used in financial contexts, such as accounting or budgeting. On the other hand, "take into account" is more commonly used in discussions about decision-making or problem-solving.

Formality

Both phrases are considered formal and are typically used in professional or academic settings. They are not commonly used in casual conversation. However, "take into account" may be slightly more formal than "take account of" due to its active connotation.

Clarity

Using the correct phrase can also affect the clarity of your communication. "Take into account" is often seen as more precise and specific, as it indicates a deliberate consideration of something. "Take account of," on the other hand, may be seen as more general and less focused.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both "take account of" and "take into account" have similar meanings, there are subtle differences in their usage and connotations. Understanding these nuances can help you communicate more effectively and accurately in various contexts.