When it comes to expressing the idea that something has been removed or used, there are many synonyms for the phrase "are taken". Some possible alternatives include "have been removed," "have been used," "have been utilized," "have been depleted," "have been consumed," "have been confiscated," and "have been acquired". All of these options have slightly different nuances and implications, depending on the context in which they are used. For example, "have been utilized" might be a better choice when discussing the use of resources, while "have been confiscated" could be appropriate in a legal or law enforcement context. Ultimately, the most effective synonym will depend on the specific message the writer or speaker wants to convey.