it was a given

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was a given" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase in a sentence when something is assumed to be known or understood without having to explain it in further detail. For example: "Given the recent decrease in customer interest, it was a given that the company would need to make some significant changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a given.

The Guardian

It was a given that we would be conspicuous.

The New York Times

It was a given; the alternative was career suicide.

The Guardian

"It was a given Liza had to be in the film," said Mr. Singer, the director.

The New York Times

So it was a given that "Superman" was the first to make the list.

The Economist

I thought it was a given, especially considering that Brennan went and apologized to Feinstein".

The New Yorker

For generations of Americans, it was a given that children would live longer than their parents.

The New York Times

In fact, it was a given in the gilded circles in which he lurked.

The Guardian

It was a given that nothing good would become of the Djalili kids.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was a given that at a barbecue everyone would rush to be with his opponent.

The New York Times

Josh Fogg, the Rockies' pitcher, said it was a given that Jackson would be a first-round pick someday.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was a given" to streamline your writing when referring to something already known or widely accepted by your audience, avoiding unnecessary explanations.

Common error

While "it was a given" is common, avoid overuse in formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise language like "it was understood" or "it was assumed" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was a given" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating that something was predictable, expected, or understood without explicit statement. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was a given" serves as a convenient way to express that something was predetermined, expected, or understood without requiring further elaboration. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. While its usage is generally neutral, opting for more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or highly professional settings. When used appropriately, "it was a given" streamlines communication by referencing shared understandings or expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was understood

Focuses on the understanding aspect rather than assumption.

it was assumed

Highlights the presumption without explicit agreement.

it was to be expected

Emphasizes the predictability of the outcome.

it was a certainty

Stresses the sureness and inevitability of the event.

it was taken for granted

Implies a lack of appreciation or awareness.

it went without saying

Indicates that something is so obvious it doesn't need to be said.

it was a foregone conclusion

Suggests that the outcome was decided in advance.

it was predetermined

Highlights that the result was fixed beforehand.

it was inevitable

Focuses on the unavoidable nature of the event.

it was a matter of course

Indicates that something is a normal or routine procedure.

FAQs

How can I use "it was a given" in a sentence?

Use "it was a given" to indicate something that was expected or understood without needing to be explicitly stated. For example, "Given her extensive experience, "it was a given" that she would excel in the role."

What are some alternatives to "it was a given"?

Alternatives include "it was understood", "it was assumed", or "it was inevitable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it was a given" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "it was a given" can sometimes be perceived as informal. In academic writing, consider using more precise and formal alternatives such as "it was presumed" or "it was anticipated".

What's the difference between "it was a given" and "it was taken for granted"?

"It was a given" implies something was expected or understood. "It was taken for granted" suggests something was not fully appreciated or valued. While both imply a lack of explicit acknowledgement, the latter carries a negative connotation of undervaluation.