Presume

pri-zoom

/priˈzuːm/

Verb

Meaning

  • Presume means to suppose or assume something is true without definite proof, often based on probability, prior knowledge, or reasonable evidence.
  • It can also mean to act without permission by taking something for granted or overstepping proper bounds.

Examples

  • We can presume that the meeting will start on time.
  • She presumed he had already read the email.
  • You shouldn't presume to tell others how they should behave.
  • The law presumes innocence until proven guilty.
  • He presumed she wouldn't mind the change in schedule.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms Antonyms
Assume Suppose Infer Believe Presuppose Conclude Guess Postulate Doubt Question Disbelieve Verify Confirm

Word Forms

  • Presume (verb)
  • Presumes (verb)
  • Presumed (verb)
  • Presuming (verb)
  • Presumable (adjective)
  • Presumably (adverb)
  • Presumption (noun)
  • Presumptive (adjective)

Origin / Etymology

From Latin praesÅ«mere meaning “to take beforehand,” formed from prae (“before”) + sÅ«mere (“to take”). Came into Middle English through Old French presumer.

Grammar Information

  • Verb Type: Regular
  • Takes objects: Yes (e.g., presume something / presume someone to be...)
  • Common Structures:
  • presume that + clause
  • presume to + verb
  • presume upon/on (formal)

Translations

  • Hindi: अनुमान लगाना / समझ लेना
  • Spanish: presumir / suponer
  • French: présumer
  • German: vermuten
  • Chinese (Mandarin): 推测 / 假定
  • Arabic: افترض
  • Japanese: 推定する (suitei suru)

Idioms & Phrases

  • Presume innocence – assume someone is innocent until proven guilty
  • Presume to do something – act beyond one's proper authority
  • Presume upon someone's kindness – take advantage of someone's goodwill

Related Words

  • Assumption
  • Presumption
  • Hypothesis
  • Conjecture
  • Inference
  • Speculation

More P Letter Words

Perpetually Precursor Prestigious Promiscuous Pursuant