is not a given

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "is not a given" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not certain. For example, "Whether the vaccine will be available next year is not a given."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

That is not a given.

The New York Times - Sports

But it is not a given.

The New Yorker

But growth is not a given.

The New York Times - Magazine

This sophistication is not a given.

The New York Times

Mr. Staggs's succession is not a given.

The New York Times

Success at Paris is not a given.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

"Compensation is not a give away.

The Guardian - Business

Adaptation isn't a given.

The New York Times - Science

Of course devolution isn't a given.

The Guardian

A snazzy new car isn't a given.

Forbes

But holiday cheer isn't a given either.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is not a given" to temper expectations or highlight the need for proactive effort. For example, "Success in this project is not a given; it requires dedication and teamwork."

Common error

While versatile, avoid overusing "is not a given" in very informal settings. Simpler phrases like "it's not certain" may sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not a given" functions as a qualifier or hedge, indicating that an outcome, situation, or assumption should not be taken as certain or guaranteed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. The examples provided by Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts, from political analysis to personal growth.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is not a given" is a versatile phrase used to express uncertainty, caution, or the need for proactive effort. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse written contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media, it maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various situations. When writing, use this phrase to manage expectations, tempering assumptions. Remember to avoid overuse in overly informal contexts where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. Considering similar concepts like is not guaranteed and "cannot be taken for granted" will help broaden your options and use each one in the most appropriate context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not guaranteed

Directly states the lack of a guarantee, very close in meaning.

is not a certainty

Focuses on the absence of absolute certainty.

is not assured

Implies a lack of certainty or assurance.

cannot be taken for granted

Emphasizes the need for appreciation or effort, similar to something not being guaranteed.

is not a sure thing

Informal way of expressing that the outcome is not guaranteed.

is uncertain

Indicates doubt or unpredictability.

remains to be seen

Indicates that the outcome is still unknown and will only be revealed in the future.

is questionable

Suggests doubt or skepticism about something.

is not set in stone

Implies that something is not fixed or unchangeable.

is up in the air

Idiomatic expression indicating that a decision or outcome is still undecided.

FAQs

How can I use "is not a given" in a sentence?

You can use "is not a given" to express that something is uncertain or not guaranteed. For example, "That the project will succeed "is not a given", we need to work hard".

What's a more formal alternative to "is not a given"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "is not guaranteed" or "is not assured". These alternatives provide a similar meaning but with a more elevated vocabulary.

Is it always appropriate to use "is not a given"?

While generally acceptable, "is not a given" might sound slightly awkward in very casual conversations. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "it's not certain" or "it's not a sure thing".

What is the difference between "is not a given" and "is not certain"?

Both phrases express uncertainty, but "is not a given" often implies that something requires effort or shouldn't be taken for granted, while "is not certain" simply states a lack of surety.