This takes for granted that
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
Use this to politely expose a flaw in someone's logic by highlighting their unproven assumptions.
En 15 secondes
- Points out a hidden assumption in an argument.
- Used to challenge the logic of a statement.
- Common in academic, professional, and serious discussions.
Signification
This phrase points out that someone is assuming something is true without actually proving it first. It is like saying, 'You are building a house on a foundation you haven't even checked yet.'
Exemples clés
3 sur 6In a business strategy meeting
This plan takes for granted that our competitors will stay silent.
This plan assumes our competitors won't do anything.
Discussing a new city policy
The law takes for granted that everyone owns a smartphone.
The law assumes everyone has a phone.
Texting a friend about a party
Your invite takes for granted that I'm actually free on Saturday!
You're assuming I don't have plans already.
Contexte culturel
The phrase stems from the legal and philosophical tradition of 'granting' a point in an argument. In Western debate culture, exposing a hidden premise is considered a high-level intellectual move. It gained massive popularity in 20th-century academic writing and remains a hallmark of C2-level proficiency.
The 'That' bridge
Always remember to include `that` after the phrase. It acts as a bridge to the idea you are about to challenge.
Don't be a 'Logic-Bot'
Using this in every conversation can make you sound cold. Save it for when an assumption actually matters.
En 15 secondes
- Points out a hidden assumption in an argument.
- Used to challenge the logic of a statement.
- Common in academic, professional, and serious discussions.
What It Means
This phrase is a scalpel for logic. It identifies a hidden assumption. When you use it, you are saying a statement relies on a specific fact. However, that fact might not be true. It is about catching what people leave unsaid. It is the 'wait a minute' moment in a serious talk.
How To Use It
Use it to start a critique. Follow it with the word that and then the assumption. For example: This takes for granted that everyone has internet. You are pointing out a blind spot. It works best when you want to look smart and observant. It shifts the burden of proof back to the other person.
When To Use It
Use it during a meeting when a plan seems too simple. Use it when reading a news article that feels biased. It is perfect for academic essays or legal debates. Even in a friendly argument about movies, it works. It shows you are thinking three steps ahead of everyone else.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for small talk. If a friend says 'Let's go to the beach,' don't say this. You will sound like a robot or a grumpy professor. Avoid it if you want to be purely supportive. It is a tool for analysis, not for emotional comfort. If you use it too much, people might think you are pedantic.
Cultural Background
This comes from the world of philosophy and formal logic. English speakers value directness and 'proof.' We like to deconstruct arguments to see if they hold water. It reflects a culture that prizes critical thinking over blind agreement. It has been a staple of intellectual English for centuries.
Common Variations
You're taking for granted that...(More direct/personal)It assumes that...(Simpler version)This rests on the assumption that...(Very formal)Don't take it for granted.(A general warning)
Notes d'usage
This is a high-register expression. Use it when you want to sound precise and objective. It is very common in C1/C2 level writing and professional critiques.
The 'That' bridge
Always remember to include `that` after the phrase. It acts as a bridge to the idea you are about to challenge.
Don't be a 'Logic-Bot'
Using this in every conversation can make you sound cold. Save it for when an assumption actually matters.
The 'Gratitude' Confusion
In English, 'taking someone for granted' means not appreciating them. But 'this takes for granted that' is about logic. Same words, different world!
Exemples
6This plan takes for granted that our competitors will stay silent.
This plan assumes our competitors won't do anything.
Points out a risky business assumption.
The law takes for granted that everyone owns a smartphone.
The law assumes everyone has a phone.
Highlights a social oversight.
Your invite takes for granted that I'm actually free on Saturday!
You're assuming I don't have plans already.
A slightly sassy way to correct a friend.
That theory takes for granted that the hero actually survived the fall.
Your theory assumes the hero lived.
Used to debunk a fan theory.
Buying this expensive bed takes for granted that the cat won't prefer the box.
You're assuming the cat will actually use the bed.
Funny take on a common pet owner mistake.
Your comment takes for granted that I don't care about your career.
You are assuming I'm not supportive.
Addressing a painful misunderstanding.
Teste-toi
Choose the best phrase to complete the critical observation.
The proposal ___ that we have the budget for extra staff.
The idiom is 'to take (something) for granted,' meaning to assume it without checking.
Identify the correct structure.
This argument takes for granted ___ the data is accurate.
The phrase is almost always followed by a 'that' clause to introduce the assumption.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Scale of 'Take for Granted'
You assume...
You assume I'm coming.
You're taking for granted...
You're taking for granted that I'll help.
This takes for granted that...
This takes for granted that the market is stable.
Where to use 'This takes for granted that'
Academic Essay
Critiquing a researcher's logic.
Job Interview
Analyzing a case study.
Debate
Countering an opponent's point.
Product Review
Pointing out a design flaw.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, but it sounds more analytical. Saying You're assuming is a bit blunt, while This takes for granted focuses on the argument itself.
Usually, we use This or The argument as the subject. If you say He takes for granted that..., you are talking about his personal mindset.
It can be seen as a challenge. In a formal setting, it's professional; in a casual setting, it might sound a bit like an invitation to argue.
There isn't a direct opposite phrase, but you could say This explicitly accounts for... or This acknowledges....
Not necessarily. It just means the assumption hasn't been proven yet. You are highlighting a gap in the logic.
Rarely. It is almost always used to find a weakness or a missing piece of information in a statement.
It functions like one. The core is the idiom to take for granted, which has been used in English since the 1600s.
In old logic, a 'granted' premise was something everyone agreed was true. 'Taking' it without permission is where the phrase comes from.
Yes, if you are talking about a person. She takes it for granted that I'll cook. But for logic, use This takes for granted that....
Yes, it is used equally in American, British, and Australian English, especially in educated circles.
Expressions liées
Begs the question
An argument that assumes the truth of the conclusion instead of supporting it.
On the premise that
Based on the specific idea or theory that something is true.
Underlying assumption
A hidden or basic belief that provides the foundation for an argument.
Given that
Taking into account a specific fact that is already known.
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