Assume: meaning, definitions and examples

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assume

[əˈsjuːm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

inference

To take for granted or without proof; suppose as a fact; conjecture

Synonyms

believe, expect, presume.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
assume	Use in situations where someone takes something for granted without proof, often indicating hesitation or uncertainty. It can have a slightly negative connotation if it's implied that the person should have checked their facts. I assume you're coming to the meeting, but I haven't seen your RSVP. Don't just assume he's guilty without any evidence.
presume	This is used in more formal contexts where someone makes an educated guess based on available evidence, but it might still carry a slight assumption. Similar to 'assume', but often implies a greater level of likelihood. Given his experience, we can presume he will handle the project well. I presume you have read the report before the meeting.
believe	Generally used when someone has a firm opinion or conviction about something, often without needing proof. It conveys personal conviction and trust. I believe that honesty is the best policy. She believes in ghosts, even though she's never seen one.
expect	Suitable for situations where there is an anticipation or prediction about something that is likely to happen. It often implies that there is some basis or reason for the anticipation. I expect the delivery to arrive by Tuesday. Parents often expect their children to do well in school.

Examples of usage

I assume that he is coming to the party tonight.
She assumed that the project would be completed by the end of the week.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

responsibility

To take on a particular role, duty, or obligation

Synonyms

accept, shoulder, undertake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
assume	Use 'assume' when you are taking something for granted, often without proof. I assume he will come to the meeting. You shouldn't assume things without asking.
undertake	Use 'undertake' when committing to a task or project, often one that requires effort or responsibility. He will undertake the construction of the new building. The company undertakes to deliver the goods by the end of the month.
shoulder	Use 'shoulder' when taking on a heavy responsibility or burden, often suggesting a tough or challenging task. He had to shoulder the responsibility for the entire project. She shoulders the blame for the mistake.
accept	Use 'accept' when you agree to something or receive something willingly. She accepted the job offer. I accept your apology.

Examples of usage

I will assume the role of team leader for this project.
The new employee will assume responsibility for managing the department.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

pretend

To pretend to have or possess; feign

Synonyms

act, feign, pretend.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
assume	Used when taking on a role or responsibility, or when making a hypothesis without strong evidence. She assumed the role of team leader during the project. We can assume that the meeting will start on time.
pretend	Used when someone is making a false display of feeling, condition, or quality, often to deceive. The children pretended to be superheroes. He pretended to be happy about the news.
act	Used when performing a role, either literally in a play or film, or metaphorically in everyday situations. He acted in several movies last year. She always acts politely around her colleagues.
feign	Used when someone is faking or pretending to feel something, often with a negative connotation. He feigned illness to avoid going to work. She feigned interest in the conversation.

Examples of usage

She assumed an air of superiority when speaking to her coworkers.
The actor assumed a different accent for the role.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'assume' comes from the Latin 'assumere', which means 'to take up or take to oneself'.
In Middle English, 'assume' was spelled as 'assumen', reflecting its evolution through the languages.
The term originally referred to the act of taking on responsibility or a role in a particular context.

Psychology

Human brains often default to assumptions to save time when processing information.
Cognitive biases like the halo effect influence how we assume characteristics of people based on one trait.
Making assumptions without evidence can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts in relationships.

Philosophy

Philosophers often challenge the act of assuming, advocating for skepticism and critical thinking.
The presumption of assumptions forms a basis in many philosophical arguments, questioning validity.
The act of assumption in philosophical discourse is about taking a position for the sake of argument.

Everyday Life

People often assume things about others based on appearances, which can lead to stereotypes.
Assumptions play a key role in decision-making processes, as we often fill gaps in information.
In negotiations, assuming someone's stance can either lead to collaboration or drive conflict.

Literature

Many literary works explore the theme of mistaken assumptions, revealing deeper truths about characters.
Classic novels often hinge on characters who make assumptions, leading to unexpected plot twists.
Authors may use the concept of assumption as a literary device to build tension and surprise.

Translations

Translations of the word "assume" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assumir

🇮🇳 मान लेना

🇩🇪 annehmen

🇮🇩 menganggap

🇺🇦 припускати

🇵🇱 zakładać

🇯🇵 仮定する (katei suru)

🇫🇷 supposer

🇪🇸 suponer

🇹🇷 varsaymak

🇰🇷 가정하다 (gajeonghada)

🇸🇦 افترض (iftarad)

🇨🇿 předpokládat

🇸🇰 predpokladať

🇨🇳 假设 (jiǎshè)

🇸🇮 predvidevati

🇮🇸 gera ráð fyrir

🇰🇿 болжау

🇬🇪 ვარაუდობ

🇦🇿 fərz etmək

🇲🇽 suponer

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,684, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

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1681 yourself
1682 authors
1683 parallel
1684 assume
1685 buy
1686 continuous
1687 exception
...