Tomar vs. coger
The Spanish words 'tomar' and 'coger' both can be used to mean 'to take', specifically in the context of using a means of transportation. However, their use and connotations can vary depending on the region and context.
Tomar
'Tomar' generally means 'to take' and can be used universally across all Spanish-speaking regions without any potential misunderstandings or awkward interpretations.
Voy a tomar el tren para ir al centro.
(I will take the train to go downtown.)
Debemos tomar un taxi para llegar más rápido.
(We should take a taxi to arrive faster.)
Ella va a tomar el autobús para ir a la escuela.
(She will take the bus to go to school.)
Coger
'Coger' also means 'to take', but its usage is more common in Spain. In some Latin American countries, 'coger' may have vulgar connotations, and thus, it is often replaced with 'tomar' or other synonyms.
Voy a coger el tren para ir al centro.
(I will take the train to go downtown.)
Debemos coger un taxi para llegar más rápido.
(We should take a taxi to arrive faster.)
Ella va a coger el autobús para ir a la escuela.
(She will take the bus to go to school.)
Summary
'Tomar' and 'coger' both translate as 'to take' in English, especially in the context of using transportation. However, while 'tomar' is universally understood and accepted, 'coger', though commonly used in Spain, might carry vulgar implications in some Latin American countries. Therefore, careful consideration of the regional vernacular is needed when using these verbs.