Don't Take Me For Granted: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
August 11, 2023

The idiom "don't take me for granted" expresses dissatisfaction with being undervalued or ignored. It can be used in different contexts and situations, such as relationships, friendships, work, etc.

In short:

"Don't take me for granted," means asking for more respect or attention from someone neglecting or exploiting you.

What Does "Don't Take Me For Granted" Mean?

The expression "don't take me for granted" is derived from the older idiom "to take something or someone for granted."

It has two meanings:

  • To accept something as true or accurate without questioning or verifying it.
  • To underestimate the value or importance of something or someone.

The first meaning is usually used neutrally or positively, such as when we assume something will happen, or someone will do something for us.

For example:

  • I took it for granted that you would come to my party.
  • She took his love for granted and never doubted his loyalty.

On the other hand, the second meaning is usually used negatively, such as when we fail to appreciate or acknowledge something or someone that we have or that does something for us.

For example:

  • He took her for granted and never thanked her for all her hard work.
  • They took their health for granted until they got sick.

Where Does "Don't Take Me For Granted" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "to take something or someone for granted" can be traced back to the 1600s, when the verb "grant" meant "to admit to being true" or "to acknowledge. Additional meanings and variations happened throughout the years, and by the 20th century, the phrase "don't take me for granted" emerged as a way of expressing dissatisfaction or resentment with being taken for granted.

10 Examples of "Don't Take Me For Granted" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how the idiom "don't take me for granted" can be used in different sentences, showing different contexts and situations.

  • Please don't take me for granted. I'm not your tutor. You have to buckle down and answer your homework.
  • I love you but don't take me for granted. I need you to show me that you care.
  • Don't take me for granted. I have other options. If you don't treat me right, I'll leave.
  • No diggity, you are a great employee. But don't take me for granted. You still need to follow the rules.
  • Don't take me for granted! I'm not your ATM. You need to pay me back what you owe me.
  • I can help you but don't take me for granted. You still need to step up your game.
  • Don't take me for granted. I won't always be here to help you through these trying times.
  • You have all the bells and whistles of a talented athlete but don't take it for granted. You still need to work hard and practice.
  • Don't take your health for granted. You may have washboard abs, but junk foods can instantly ruin them.
  • They lived for years under a dictatorship. That's why they learned not to take their freedom for granted.

Examples of "Don't Take Me For Granted" in Pop Culture

The idiom "don't take me for granted" has also been used in various songs, movies, books, and TV shows.

Here are some examples:

  • In the TV show "Friends," Rachel tells Ross "not to take her for granted" when he tries to get back together.
  • In the movie "The Break-Up," Brooke tells Gary "not to take her for granted" after he forgets their anniversary.
  • In the book "The Hunger Games," Katniss tells Peeta "not to take her for granted" when he confesses his feelings for her.
  • In the song "Don't Take Me For Granted" by Social Distortion, the singer warns his lover not to underestimate his love or loyalty.

Other Ways to Say "Don't Take Me For Granted"

Here are some synonyms or alternative phrases that can be used for "don't take me for granted":

  • Don't underestimate me
  • Don't ignore me
  • Don't disrespect me
  • Don't exploit me
  • Don't neglect me
  • Don't overlook me
  • Don't presume on me
  • Don't undervalue me
  • Don't make assumptions about me
  • Don't treat me like dirt

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Don't Take Me For Granted"

Here are some common questions and answers about the idiom "don't take me for granted":

  • What does "don't take me for granted" mean?

The idiom "don't take me for granted" refers to dissatisfaction with being undervalued or ignored.

  • What is the origin of "don't take me for granted"?

The origin of the idiom "to take something or someone for granted" can be traced back to the 1600s, when the verb "grant" meant "to admit to being true" or "to acknowledge.

  • What are some synonyms for "don't take me for granted"?

Some synonyms for "don't take me for granted" are "don't exploit me", " don't treat me like dirt", "don't undervalue me."

  • What is the difference between "don't take me for granted" and "don't take advantage of me"?

Both phrases imply a lack of appreciation or respect, but "don't take advantage of me" also suggests a deliberate attempt to use or manipulate someone for one's own benefit.

  • Is "don't take me for granted" rude or polite?

It depends on how you say it and who you say it to. If you say it calmly and respectfully, it can be a polite way of expressing your feelings and needs. If you say it angrily or aggressively, it can be a rude way of accusing or blaming someone.

  • Can you use "don't take me for granted" in a positive way?

Yes, you can use it positively to show appreciation or gratitude for someone who does not take you for granted.

Example: Thank you for not taking me for granted. You always make me feel special and loved.

  • How do you say "don't take me for granted" in other languages?

Spanish: No me des por sentado

French: Ne me prends pas pour acquis

Italian: Non darmi per scontato

German: Nimm mich nicht als selbstverständlich hin

  • What are some idioms similar to "don't take me for granted"?

Some idioms similar to "don't take me for granted" are: "Don't bite the hand that feeds you," "Don't put all your eggs in one basket," "Don't judge a book by its cover," "Don't look a gift horse in the mouth."

  • How do you use "don't take me for granted" in a joke?

You can use "don't take me for granted" in a joke by making a pun, a twist, or a contrast with the idiom.

Example: What did the cheese say to the cracker? A: Don't take me for grated.

  • How can I tell if someone is "taking me for granted"?

Some signs that someone is taking you for granted are: They don't say thank you or please, they don't listen to you or value your opinion, they don't make time for you or prioritize you, they don't respect your boundaries or wishes, and they don't reciprocate your efforts or gestures.

Final Thoughts About "Don't Take Me For Granted"

"Don't take me for granted" is a common idiom that expresses dissatisfaction or resentment with being undervalued or ignored. It asks for more respect or attention from someone neglecting or exploiting you.

In summary:

  • To take someone for granted means not appreciating or valuing them appropriately.
  • "Don't take me for granted" means asking for more respect or attention from someone neglecting or exploiting you.
  • The idiom can be used in various sentences, showing different contexts and situations.

We hope this article has helped you understand the meaning, origin, examples, and FAQs of the phrase "Don't take me for granted." Remember to appreciate and value the people who matter to you, and never take them for granted.

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