take arms

• Prepararse para la batalla o el conflicto, generalmente empuñando armas; también se usa en sentido figurado para indicar disposición a discutir o luchar por una causa.

To prepare for battle or conflict, typically by picking up weapons; also used figuratively to mean preparing to argue or fight for a cause.

1. Prepare for battleB2formal

   To pick up weapons and prepare to fight, especially in a military context.

   tomar las armas

   • The soldiers were ordered to take arms and defend the city.
   • Citizens took arms against the invading army.
   • They took arms to protect their homeland.

2. Begin a protest or rebellionC1formal

   To start a strong opposition or protest against something, often figuratively.

   tomar las armas (fig.)

   • The activists took arms against the new law.
   • The community took arms to fight for their rights.
   • They took arms in the struggle for justice.