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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.

presume

/prɪˈzum/ /prɪˈzjuːm/

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?

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