Take For Granted – Meaning and Examples
We often fail to appreciate the good things in our lives until they’re gone, and we sometimes assume certain conditions will always exist. In English, we say we take for granted these blessings and assumptions. This important idiom helps talk about appreciation and awareness.
What Does “Take For Granted” Mean?
“Take for granted” has two related meanings. It can mean to fail to appreciate something good in your life because you assume it will always be there. It can also mean to assume something is true without questioning it. Think of it like not noticing your health until you get sick, or assuming the sun will always rise without thinking about it.
When to Use It
Use this idiom when talking about unappreciated blessings like health, family, or comforts. Use it when discussing assumptions we make without evidence. Use it in personal reflections about gratitude and awareness. It is often used in negative contexts to highlight lack of appreciation.
Example Sentences
- We often take for granted having clean water available.
- Don’t take your friends for granted—they might not always be there.
- I took it for granted that the store would be open, but it was closed for renovation.
- Many people take for granted the ability to walk until they experience an injury.
Mini Dialogue
Maria: “I never realized how much work my parents did until I moved out and had to do everything myself.”
David: “It’s easy to take for granted what others do for us when we’re used to it.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom is about lack of appreciation or unexamined assumptions. Don’t use it when you actually appreciate something.
❌ Don’t say: “I really take for granted my wonderful family.” (This contradicts the meaning—use “appreciate” instead).
✅ Do say: “I used to take for granted how much my parents supported me until I moved away.”
Practice Tip
Make a list of three things you might be taking for granted in your life right now. Create sentences like “I sometimes take for granted [specific blessing] because [reason].” For example, “I sometimes take for granted having reliable electricity because it’s always there.” This builds awareness while practicing the idiom.
Final Note
You now know how to use “take for granted” to talk about unappreciated blessings and unexamined assumptions. This reflective phrase will help you discuss gratitude, awareness, and the importance of recognizing the value in our lives. Use it to become more mindful of what you might be overlooking!
