toll (redirected from take a heavy toll)

sound/toll the death knell

to cause an organization, system, or activity to fail or end. The new superstore will sound the death knell for hundreds of small independent shops. (often + for) The closure of the local car factory tolled the death knell of the town. (sometimes + of)

See also: death, knell, sound

take a/its/their toll

to have a bad effect on someone or something. Bringing up nine children had taken its toll on my mother. (often + on) The disease has taken a horrendous toll in parts of western Africa.

See also: take

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take its toll

to cause harm or suffering. Divorce takes its toll on the children involved.

See also: take