Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪks kˈɔːt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the phrase "takes court" is /teɪks kɔːt/. The word "takes" is spelled with a "k" and "s" because of the pronunciation of the "k" sound before the "s" sound, which is known as a voiceless velar stop. The word "court" is spelled with a "c" and "ou" because of the pronunciation of the "k" sound before the "o" sound, which is known as a voiceless velar stop followed by an unrounded mid-back vowel.
"Takes court" is a phrase commonly used in legal contexts and has a specific meaning within the realm of law. It refers to the act of initiating a legal action or proceeding by filing a lawsuit or taking a case to court. When someone "takes court," they are effectively beginning a legal process to resolve a dispute or seek redress for a perceived wrong.
The phrase implies that a party involved in a conflict decides to pursue their legal rights by utilizing the judicial system. This involves submitting a formal complaint or petition to the court, thereby enabling a judge or jury to hear and evaluate the merits of the case. In doing so, the individual or entity hopes to obtain a legal judgment or remedy in their favor. Taking a case to court is often regarded as a significant step, marking the official commencement of a lawsuit.
Furthermore, the decision to "take court" can be indicative of a party's determination to seek justice through the legal system rather than alternative methods like mediation or negotiation. By initiating court proceedings, individuals or organizations are essentially signaling their intention to have their day in court and present their arguments and evidence before an impartial adjudicator. Taking court is an action that invokes a formal, procedurally regulated approach to resolving legal disputes within a jurisdiction, allowing parties to advocate their positions and seek resolution.
The phrase "takes court" does not have a distinct etymology, as it is a combination of two commonly used words with their own origins. However, here is the etymology of each word:
1. Takes: The word "takes" derives from the Old English word "tacan", which means "to grasp or seize". It has roots in Germanic languages, such as Old High German "zahan" and Old Norse "taka".
2. Court: The word "court" comes from the Old French word "cort", which means "a courtyard" or "an enclosed space". It was originally derived from the Latin word "cohors", meaning "an enclosed yard" or "a company of people". Ultimately, it traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*gher-", signifying "to grasp" or "to enclose".
