Definition

Verb (transitive) 1. To assume or believe something about someone or something, often without full evidence or consideration. - This meaning involves forming a belief or opinion, frequently one that is mistaken or based on a superficial impression. 2. To regard or consider someone or something in a specific way. - This meaning involves holding a particular view or judgment.

Usage and Examples

The verb phrase 'take for' is used with an object (a person or thing) and is often followed by a noun or noun phrase describing the assumed identity or characteristic.

• Basic Structure: take [someone/something] for [a type of person/thing]

• Examples:

  • With his elegant suit and confident manner, people often take him for a successful CEO. (People assume he is a CEO.)
  • I'm sorry, I took you for someone else. (I mistakenly believed you were a different person.)
  • One should not take her quiet nature for a lack of intelligence. (One should not mistakenly consider her quietness to mean she is not intelligent.)
  • His dedication can be taken for granted if you don't acknowledge it. (His dedication can be assumed to always be there without appreciation.)

Advanced Usage and Notes

• 'Take for granted': This is a very common fixed phrase with two related meanings:
  • To assume something is true without questioning it.

    • We take it for granted that the sun will rise every morning.
  • To fail to appreciate someone or something because they are always present or available.

    • He never says thank you; he just takes her for granted.
• The phrase often carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of proof, a mistaken judgment, or a failure to appreciate.

Variants and Related Words

• Assume (verb): To suppose something to be the case without proof.
• Mistake for (verb phrase): To wrongly identify someone or something as another. (e.g., )
• Presume (verb): To suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability.

Synonyms

• Assume
• Believe to be
• Suppose
• Reckon
• Consider

Related Phrasal Verbs / Idioms

• Take someone/something as...: To interpret or understand in a particular way.
  • Please take my comments as constructive criticism.
• Take it that...: To assume or understand that something is the case.
  • I take it that you agree, since you're not objecting.

Verb

1. keep in mind or convey as a conviction or view
   • take for granted
   • view as important
   • hold these truths to be self-evident
   • I hold him personally responsible