Take a dive Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation Using 'take a dive' implies dishonesty or cheating in sports. The fans were outraged when they suspected the player had taken a dive. Pro Tip 2/3Colloquial Use More common in casual conversation than formal speech. Everyone in the bar thought the fighter took a dive. Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal It's metaphorical; no actual 'diving' is involved. The referee denied any players had taken a dive during the match.