A dictionary of Confusable Phrases: More Than 10,000 Idioms and Collocations

Note: 
The expression does not correlate in meaning with the
phrase take time by the forelock—act in advance of an expected
event: The firm took time by the forelock in closing down
before the strike.
See also: take one’s hour / take one’s time.
take the water • take the waters
take the water —
1
. (of an animal) enter a lake, river, etc. and
begin to swim: I heard a splash and saw a deer take the water
300 yards or so above me. 2. (of a ship) be launched: The ship
took the water beautifully, the strains of the band mingling
with the cheers of those assembled.
Note: 
The expression does not correlate in meaning with the
phrase take in water—
1
. drink or absorb water: If you sweat
and don’t replace it [water], you can get into trouble. Thirst
should never serve as a reminder to take in water. 2. (of a
vessel) strike a leak: In 
1
620, the boats set off from Southampton
for the New World. Before too long the Speedwell started to
take in water…
take the waters —drink the water of a mineral spring as a
medicinal substance: He [Milton] died at Spa, where he was
taking the waters, in September 
1
653.
take the wind • take wind
take the wind —(sl.) take one’s leave; make a hasty retreat
(also: take the breeze): I took the wind just as soon as I could
get over the wall and get out of here.
take wind —(of a rumor, etc.) become known (also: take air):
The preparations for Margaret’s flight had not been conducted
so secretly but that some rumor of them had taken wind.
take time off • take time out
take time off —remain away from work, study, etc. for a
period of time (because one is unwell, etc.): I occasionally
take time off to hike in the mountains and ski.
take time out—take a break from one’s normal routine of
studying or working (in order to do smth. different): I usually
take time out during the afternoon for a cup of tea.