tollBrE /təʊl/ NAmE /toʊl/ ●take its ˈtoll (on sb/sth) ( take a (heavy) ˈtoll (of sth)) have a bad effect on sb/sth; cause a lot of damage, deaths, suffering, etc.产生恶果;造成重大损失(或伤亡、灾难等)◆The present economic crisis is taking a heavy toll. Thousands of firms have gone bankrupt. 目前的经济危机造成了严重的后果,已有数千家企业倒闭。◆His job is taking its toll on him. He needs a rest. 他的工作正在危害他的健康,他需要休息。