ENGLISH
REFERENCE

given

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɡɪvən// UK //ɡˈɪvən// giv·en
Definition

n. something that is certain to happen or is accepted as true without any doubt. You use this when you start a discussion with a fact that everyone already agrees on.

n. a known or established fact; a premise that is accepted as true without requiring further proof. Often used to describe a condition or circumstance that is considered inevitable or non-negotiable within a specific context.


SIMPLE

In this company, hard work is a given.

CONTEXTUAL

When planning the outdoor wedding, the couple treated the possibility of rain as a given and rented a large tent.

COMPLEX

The philosopher argued that while sensory experience is a given, the interpretation of that data is subject to the cultural biases of the observer.

Usage

Usually appears in the singular form, often preceded by the indefinite article 'a'.

Idioms2 entries

© 2026 English Reference