Q: Does the word "take" mean the same thing in "Do you take me for a fool?" and "I take it you're not going?"?

A: the same meaning

Q: Does the word "loss" mean the same thing in "It was written off as a loss." and "Everyone expected him to win so his loss was a shock."?

A: different meanings

Q: Does the word "start" mean the same thing in "He awoke with a start." and "He woke with a start."?

A: the same meaning

Q: Does the word "ensure" mean the same thing in "This nest egg will ensure a nice retirement for us." and "Our exertions ensured us a good outcome."?

A:
the same meaning