There are several synonyms for the phrase "took notice." One such synonym is "took heed," which refers to paying close attention to something or someone. Another synonym is "took note," which implies that the person acknowledged and recorded the information observed. The phrase "took account of" implies that the person considered something to be important and not worthy of being ignored. Another synonym that can be used is "recognized," which implies that the person acknowledged and comprehended the significance of something. Finally, "acknowledged" can be used instead of "took notice" to suggest that the person recognized and responded to something observed.