[take the defensive] {v. phr.} To make oneself the defending party. […]

[take the edge off] also [take off the edge] {v. phr.} […]

[take the fifth] {v. phr.}, {informal} 1. Taking refuge behind the […]

[take the floor] {v. phr.} To get up and make a […]

[take the law into one's own hands] {v. phr.} To protect […]

[take the lid off] {v. phr.} 1. To let out in […]

[take the measure of] See: [TAKE ONE'S MEASURE].

[take the mickey] {v.} To tease or mock.

[take the offensive] {v. phr.} To make oneself the attacking party. […]

[take the piss (out of)] {v.} To mock.