take for granted: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "take something as read" is another expression that is related to the concept of taking things for granted. This idiom is used to suggest that something is so widely known or accepted that it does not need to be explicitly stated or proven. It implies that certain assumptions or facts can be safely assumed as true without further explanation or evidence.

When applied to the idea of taking things for granted, the idiom "take something as read" emphasizes the tendency to overlook or dismiss the need for explicit recognition or appreciation of something or someone. It suggests that certain aspects of our lives are so ingrained or expected that we do not pause to acknowledge their significance or the effort that goes into maintaining them.

For example, consider the relationship between parents and their children. Parents often provide love, support, and care without expecting explicit gratitude or acknowledgment. The idiom "take something as read" captures the idea that parents, in a sense, take their children's appreciation and recognition as a given. They understand the deep bond and sacrifice that comes with parenthood and expect it to be understood without needing to be explicitly stated.

In a broader sense, this idiom can be applied to many aspects of life, both big and small. We may take for granted the availability of clean drinking water, the stability of our jobs or homes, and the support of friends and family. These things are often so much a part of our daily routines that we do not stop to think about how essential they are to our well-being.

Similarly, the idiom "throw away" can also be related to the concept of taking things for granted. This idiom is often used to describe the act of discarding or getting rid of something without considering its value or potential. It suggests a lack of appreciation or awareness of what is being discarded.

When applied to taking things for granted, the idiom "throw away" underscores the idea that we may unknowingly discard or overlook the value of certain aspects of our lives. We may disregard the effort, time, or resources that have gone into creating or maintaining these elements, whether they be relationships, opportunities, or material possessions.

For example, imagine a person who has a talented friend who is always available to help or provide support. This person may come to rely on their friend's assistance without fully recognizing the effort and skill that their friend brings to the table. They may take for granted the availability and reliability of their friend's help, assuming that it will always be there when needed.

In a broader sense, the idiom "throw away" can be applied to instances where we overlook or dismiss the value of certain opportunities or experiences. We may settle for less than what we truly desire or deserve due to a perceived abundance or lack of appreciation for what is available.

The idiom "small change" is another expression that can be connected to the concept of taking things for granted. This idiom refers to money in the form of coins of low value. It is often used metaphorically to represent something that is considered insignificant or unimportant.

When used in relation to taking things for granted, the idiom "small change" conveys the idea that we may undervalue or overlook the significance of certain elements in our lives. It suggests a tendency to prioritize or focus on what we perceive as more valuable or substantial, while dismissing or neglecting the smaller, seemingly less important aspects.

For example, imagine an individual who is constantly pursuing career advancement and financial success. They may prioritize their professional life and financial goals, considering them as the "big wins" or the significant measures of success. In doing so, they may inadvertently take for granted the smaller moments, relationships, or experiences that bring joy, fulfillment, or happiness.

In a broader sense, the idiom "small change" encourages us to consider the cumulative impact and value of the seemingly insignificant elements in our lives. It reminds us that the small acts of kindness, the fleeting moments of joy, and the seemingly minor accomplishments are what contribute to our overall well-being and fulfillment.

The idiom "settle for" is yet another expression that can be connected to the concept of taking things for granted. This idiom is often used to describe the act of accepting or choosing something that is considered less than ideal or what one truly desires.

When applied to taking things for granted, the idiom "settle for" highlights the tendency to accept or become complacent with what is readily available or attainable, rather than striving for what one truly desires or deserves. It suggests a lack of ambition or dissatisfaction with the existing options.

For example, consider a person who is in a romantic relationship that no longer brings them joy or fulfillment. They may continue to stay in the relationship out of habit, convenience, or a fear of being alone. In doing so, they may "settle for" less than what they truly desire or deserve, taking for granted the possibility of finding a more fulfilling and compatible partnership.

In a broader sense, the idiom "settle for" reminds us to question whether we are accepting less than what we truly desire or deserve in various aspects of our lives. It encourages us to challenge our own complacency and to pursue what brings us joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose.

The idiom "sit on it" is another expression that can be related to the concept of taking things for granted. This idiom is often used to describe the act of delaying action or decision-making, typically due to a lack of urgency or a sense of complacency.

When applied to taking things for granted, the idiom "sit on it" underscores the tendency to postpone or delay acknowledgement, appreciation, or action regarding certain aspects of our lives. It suggests a lack of urgency or a failure to recognize the need for active engagement or involvement.

For example, consider a person who has a talent or passion for painting but never takes the time to pursue it seriously. They may "sit on" their artistic abilities, assuming that they can always explore them at a later time. In doing so, they may inadvertently take for granted the opportunity to express themselves creatively and to potentially find fulfillment and joy through their artistic endeavors.

In a broader sense, the idiom "sit on it" serves as a reminder to actively engage with and appreciate the possibilities, opportunities, and talents in our lives. It encourages us to avoid complacency and to take proactive steps towards acknowledging, valuing, and pursuing what brings us joy, fulfillment, and growth.