What does the idiom "take sb for granted" mean?

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase take sb for granted, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression take sb for granted used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "take sb for granted"

Meaning

The idiom ‘take someone for granted’ means to assume that someone will always be there and always put up with one’s behavior. It implies that one is not giving due respect to their presence and is not taking them into consideration in one’s decisions or actions. Taking someone for granted often leads to lack of appreciation and gratitude.

Etymology

The phrase 'take for granted' was first used in the 16th century and was derived from the Latin expression ‘gratia’ which means ‘grace’ or ‘favor.’ In the modern English, it is usually used with the prefix ‘take’ to denote a certain level of disrespect.

Usage

The phrase ‘take someone for granted’ is usually used to describe a situation in which a person assumes that the other person will always be there for them and does not show the same level of appreciation and respect. It could be used in both a positive and a negative context. For instance, a couple who are together for a long time could take each other for granted, which would be a negative context. On the other hand, a couple who have just started dating could take each other for granted in an endearing fashion, showing that they would always be there for each other.

Example Sentences

  • I’m tired of always being taken for granted by my friends - they never appreciate me or thank me for my help.
  • John and Jane have been together for 10 years, but they are still madly in love. They never take each other for granted.
  • I can’t believe I took my best friend for granted for so long - I should have shown her more gratitude and appreciation.

The meanings of the words in the "take sb for granted" idiom

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.

NO COMMENT

No comment has been written about take sb for granted yet, you can write the first comment and share your thoughts with our other visitors.
Leave a Reply