Assumption: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you accept something as true without proof, often in planning or theoretical contexts.

• We need to make an assumption about future sales to plan our budget.
• Your argument is based on the assumption that he is guilty.

Used to describe something you accept as true or real, often without proof. It usually implies a stronger personal conviction.

• She has a strong belief in the power of positive thinking.
• My belief is that everyone deserves a second chance.

Often used in legal or formal contexts to describe something accepted as true until proven otherwise. Can have a negative connotation implying taking something for granted.

• The presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle in legal systems.
• It's a bit bold to make such a presumption without knowing all the facts.

Used when suggesting something that might be true or is being considered as a possibility, often for the sake of argument or analysis.

• This is all pure supposition until we have more data.
• Let's proceed on the supposition that our hypothesis is correct.

Used when accepting something as true without proof, often in everyday situations or logical reasoning.

• She made an assumption that he would be late, so she didn't hurry
• The plan was based on the assumption that we had enough resources

Used in logical reasoning and arguments to refer to a statement upon which a conclusion is drawn, often seen in formal discussions and debates.

• The conclusion follows logically from the premise
• If you accept the premises, the argument is valid

Used primarily in mathematics and science to refer to a statement assumed to be true as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief.

• Einstein postulated the speed of light as a constant in the theory of relativity
• Mathematicians postulate the existence of a solution before attempting to prove it

Used in mathematics, philosophy, and logic to refer to a statement or principle accepted as true without proof as the basis for further reasoning or argument.

• In geometry, an axiom is a starting point from which other statements are logically derived
• The axiom that 'all men are created equal' is a fundamental principle of democracy

Used when you accept something as true without proof, generally in everyday situations or casual discussions.

• His assumption that everyone would agree with him was incorrect.
• We made the assumption that it would rain today.

Used when discussing or presenting an idea or scenario that is not real but imagined for the sake of argument or exploration.

• In a hypothetical situation where we could fly, transportation would be much easier.
• Let's discuss a hypothetical case where we double our production output.

Primarily used in more technical or philosophical discussions to refer to something assumed in advance but often without conscious consideration.

• The presupposition that all men are created equal is foundational to democratic societies.
• His argument had a hidden presupposition that needed to be addressed.

Typically used in more formal or academic contexts to indicate something that is accepted as true or certain.

• Given the current economic climate, we should be cautious with our investments.
• It was taken as a given that the project would be completed on time.