take its toll . take its toll {v. phr.} To cause loss or damage. The bombs had taken their toll on the little town. The budget cut took its toll of teachers. Categories: add yours {v. phr.} Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms by A. Makkai, M.T. Boatner, J.E. Gates © 2025 To section: T Subscribe to: American IdiomsIdioms feedEnglish languageHome page and general feed Leave my opinion