English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Take for granted
Meaning
The idiom "take for granted" means to assume something is true without question or proof, often because it has been repeated or ingrained in one's beliefs over time. This can also mean disregarding the importance of something or treating it as insignificant.
Usage
- "Don't take my word for it, let's do some research to see if there's any evidence." - This usage implies that the speaker is taking something for granted and wants others to do the same.
- "I used to think exercise was a waste of time until I started seeing results." - This usage implies that the speaker once held something in low regard but has since changed their opinion based on personal experience.
- "It's easy to take our friends for granted when we're busy with work and other obligations." - This usage implies that taking relationships for granted is common, especially during times of stress or busyness.
- "I didn't realize how important it was to maintain a healthy relationship until I lost my last one." - This usage implies that the speaker took something for granted in their past relationships and has since learned the importance of valuing them.
- "It's easy to take clean water for granted until you have to go without it for an extended period." - This usage implies that taking basic necessities for granted is common, especially when they are readily available.
Roots and History
The idiom "take for granted" has been in use since at least the 16th century. One of its earliest recorded uses is from a book written by John Heywood in 1546 called "A Dialogue Conteinyng the Nomber in Effect of All the Prouerbes in the Englishe Tongue." The idiom was originally spelled as "take for gred" and meant to take something lightly or undervalue it. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has expanded to include taking something for granted without question, even if there is evidence against it. The phrase has also become more commonly used in discussions about relationships and personal growth. There are no known regional variations of this idiom in English.
Synonyms in English
- Assume
- Believe without question
- Disregard
- Treat lightly
- Take lightly
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "prendre pour granted"
- Spanish: "tolerar"
- German: "vermuten" (to assume)
- Italian: "assumere" (to assume)
- Chinese: "假定" (to assume)