take for granted

idiomatic phrase

: to assume (something) as true, real, unquestionable, or to be expected

We took our invitation to the party for granted. = We took it for granted that we'd be invited to the party. [=we assumed we'd be invited and did not think about the possibility that we wouldn't be]

What I will call the "old" middle class rose to prominence in the Forties, Fifties, and Sixties, when economic growth was taken for granted and opportunity was abundant.

Alan Wolfe

: to value (something or someone) too lightly : to fail to properly notice or appreciate (someone or something that should be valued)

We often take our freedom for granted.

I'm tired of being taken for granted.

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler

The first known use of take for granted was in 1588

See more words from the same year

Dictionary Entries Near take for granted

take for a ride

take for granted

take form

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Take for granted.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20for%20granted. Accessed 7 Dec. 2022.

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