Presume - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To presume means to suppose something is true without certain proof, often based on reasonable grounds. It implies making an assumption or taking something for granted.
Definition:
To suppose something is true without proof, or to take liberties.
Synonyms:
assume, suppose, guess, infer, surmise
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
know, disprove
Common Collocations:
presume innocence, presume guilt, presume knowledge, presume authority
Derivatives:
presumption, presumptive, presumably
Usage Tips:
Use "presume" when making an educated guess; avoid overconfidence unless evidence supports it.
Common Phrases:
presume upon someone's kindness, innocent until proven guilty, I presume so
Etymology:
From Latin "praesumere," meaning "to take beforehand," combining "prae-" (before) and "sumere" (take).
Examples:
- 1. She presumed he would arrive late as usual.
- 2. Do not presume to know my thoughts without asking me first.
- 3. The law presumes innocence until guilt is proven in court.
- 4. I presume you’ve already heard the news about the meeting?