take for granted

take someone or something for granted

to expect someone or something to be always available to serve in some way without thanks or recognition; to value someone or something too lightly. I wish you didn't take me for granted. I guess that I take a lot of things for granted.

See also: grant, take

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take somebody for granted

to not show that you are grateful to someone for helping you or that you are happy they are with you, often because they have helped you or been with you so often One of the problems with relationships is that after a while you begin to take each other for granted.

See also: grant, take

take something for granted

to expect something to be available all the time and forget that you are lucky to have it We take so many things for granted in this country - like having hot water whenever we need it.

See also: grant, take

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take somebody for granted

to fail to appreciate someone When your own children are growing up, you tend to take them for granted, and then, suddenly, they are grown up. Politicians seem to take voters for granted, except when they face a serious challenge.

Usage notes: usually said about someone who is not appreciated because you think they will always be available

See also: grant, take

take something for granted

1. to fail to appreciate the value of something So many of us take clean water for granted.

2. to accept something as true without questioning or testing it We take it for granted that our children will be better off than we are. Opposite of: not take anything for granted

See also: grant, take