"take" breakfast? An old expression?
I was reading a novel written in the 19th century. I found this expression "...I had taken breakfast." Is it an old expression or something? Usually the word "taken" should be "had", right?

Question

"take" breakfast? An old expression? 
I was reading a novel written in the 19th century. I found this expression "...I had taken breakfast." Is it an old expression or something? Usually the word "taken" should be "had", right?

Answer

In the context you found, yes, it is anachronistic.  Its meaning here is similar to 'eat' or 'consume', rather than 'have'.  However, the word is still used frequently in this way in British English, particularly when you are talking about medicine:  "I take my pills at the same time every day"

Answer

sounds painful to 'take breakfast' :P

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn a language from the comfort of your own home. Browse our selection of experienced language tutors and enroll in your first lesson now!