not given to

USAGE SUMMARY

"not given to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is often used to describe someone who doesn't typically feel or exhibit a certain emotion or thought. For example, "He was not given to showing his emotions in public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Sotomayor is not given to niceties.

The New Yorker

Saban is not given to modest ambitions.

The New Yorker

Fraenkel was not given to introspection.

The New Yorker

But they were not given to conversation.

The New Yorker

And Ancelotti is not given to hyperbole.

The New York Times - Sports

"Masculinity is not given to you.

The New York Times

It was not given to me.

The New York Times - Sports

He is not given to theological reflection.

The New York Times - Books

Etta James is not given to bitterness.

The Guardian - Music

But they are not given to children.

The Guardian

He's not given to great effusion.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "not given to" with specific nouns or gerunds to provide a clearer picture of the behavior or trait being described. For example, "He is not given to exaggeration."

Common error

While grammatically correct, "not given to" relies on passive voice. To achieve a more direct and active tone, consider rephrasing the sentence. For example, instead of "He is not given to complaining", try "He rarely complains" or "He avoids complaining".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not given to" functions as a modifier, typically describing a subject's lack of inclination towards a specific behavior, emotion, or characteristic. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in describing someone's personality or habits. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not given to" is a versatile phrase used to subtly describe someone's lack of inclination toward a particular behavior or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in a variety of contexts. While it’s commonly used in News & Media, its applicability extends to Science and other formal settings. When writing, consider the passive construction and whether a more active voice would be more impactful. Furthermore, recognize the fine distinctions between "not given to" and similar phrases like "not inclined to" or ""not prone to"" to convey the precise meaning you intend.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not inclined to

Focuses on a lack of personal preference or willingness.

not prone to

Emphasizes a lack of susceptibility or vulnerability.

not disposed to

Highlights a lack of inherent tendency or disposition.

not apt to

Suggests a low probability or likelihood.

not liable to

Implies a lack of legal or moral obligation, or a low likelihood.

not wont to

Indicates a lack of customary behavior or habit.

does not tend to

Highlights a lack of typical or usual behavior.

rarely engages in

Focuses on the infrequency of an action or behavior.

does not typically

Indicates a lack of usual or common behavior.

not in the habit of

Emphasizes a lack of routine or customary behavior.

FAQs

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

Use "not given to" to describe someone who doesn't typically display a certain characteristic or behavior. For instance, "She's a scientist and "not given to hyperbole"".

What's the difference between "not given to" and "not inclined to"?

"Not given to" implies a general lack of tendency or disposition, whereas "not inclined to" suggests a lack of willingness or personal preference in a specific instance.

Are there any formal alternatives to "not given to"?

In formal contexts, you could use phrases like "does not typically", "does not usually", or "is "not disposed to"".

When is it appropriate to use "not given to"?

It's appropriate when you want to subtly convey a lack of inclination or tendency without directly stating a negative trait. For example, "He's a stoic man, "not prone to" public displays of emotion".