take over

verb7

1. •
   To assume control of something, such as a business or enterprise, and sometimes by force.

   • Pilton Yard, the Lynton & Barnstaple headquarters, has been taken over by a fur trading firm, and would-be trespassers to the old engine-shed are turned back by the pungent odour of heaps of carcases. — 1951
2. •
   To buy out the ownership of a business.

   • Acme Motors is to take Jetcar Industries over this week, if all goes as planned.
3. •
   To appropriate something without permission.
4. •
   To annex a territory by conquest or invasion; to conquer.

   • Ancient Rome took over lands throughout the known world.
5. •
   To adopt a further responsibility or duty.

   • He will take over the job permanently when the accountant retires.
6. •
   To relieve someone temporarily.

   • My husband is taking over the accounts department during the holiday period, while the chief accountant is away.
   • If you will take over driving, I'd like to get some sleep.
7. •
   To become more successful than (someone or something else).

   • Buzz Lightyear has taken over Woody as the most popular children's toy.
   • Tiger Woods has taken over as the top golfer.