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Assuming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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assuming

[əˈsjuː.mɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

general usage

Assuming is the act of taking something for granted or accepting it as true without proof. It often implies a certain level of belief or conjecture based on incomplete information. In many situations, assuming can lead to misunderstandings or incorrect conclusions. This term is frequently used in discussions, where one might say they are assuming a particular fact or scenario to argue their point or to facilitate reasoning.

Synonyms

presuming, supposing, taking for granted.

Examples of usage

  • I am assuming you will be at the meeting.
  • We shouldn't be assuming anything about her intentions.
  • Assuming this information is accurate, we can proceed.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cognitive biases often lead people to make assumptions quickly, which can skew their perceptions.
  • The Dunning-Kruger effect illustrates that individuals with less experience in a field often make unfounded assumptions about their knowledge.
  • Assumption-making can save time in decision-making but can lead to misunderstandings or incorrect conclusions if unchecked.

Communication

  • Communication often breaks down when people assume they know what others are thinking or feeling.
  • Active listening can prevent dangerous assumptions by encouraging clarification and dialogue.
  • In conflict resolution, assuming causes rather than exploring facts can lead to unnecessary disputes.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss assumptions as foundational beliefs that must be examined in critical thinking.
  • In the realm of ethics, assuming moral principles without question can lead to misguided decisions.
  • Existentialists argue that many life choices are based on unexamined assumptions about existence.

Literature

  • Literary characters often face consequences from their assumptions, driving the plot and character development.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, assumptions frequently lead to misunderstandings and comic or tragic situations.
  • Modern novels often explore the themes of assumption and reality, challenging readers to question their beliefs.

Origin of 'assuming'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'assumere', which means 'to take up' or 'to take for oneself'.
  • It first came into English use around the late 14th century, referring to adopting a role or responsibility.
  • The concept has evolved to include the idea of taking something for granted without verification.

The word 'assuming' originates from the Latin verb 'assumere', which means 'to take up' or 'to take upon oneself'. This Latin term is composed of the prefix 'ad-', meaning 'to', and 'sumere', meaning 'to take'. Over time, 'assumere' evolved into the Old French word 'assumer', before entering the English language around the 15th century. In English, 'assuming' has maintained its core meaning relating to taking something for granted or accepting it as true without verification. The concept of assumption has played a significant role in various fields, including logic, mathematics, and everyday reasoning, highlighting the importance of assumptions in forming conclusions and arguments. As language has evolved, the usage of 'assuming' has expanded beyond literary contexts into everyday conversation, becoming a common term in language used to express hypotheses or conditional thinking.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,638, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.