Premise: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'premise' when referring to a foundational idea or basic principle upon which an argument or theory is based.

• The premise of the movie is quite intriguing.
• Her argument was built on a faulty premise.

Use 'assumption' when referring to something that is accepted as true without proof. It often precedes further action or reasoning and is not necessarily based on strong evidence.

• Her plan was based on the assumption that everyone would agree.
• It's a common assumption that the meeting will start on time.

Use 'hypothesis' in scientific or academic contexts when referring to a proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.

• Scientists tested the hypothesis through various experiments.
• The hypothesis was later confirmed by additional research.

Use 'presupposition' when referring to something assumed in advance as a foundation for further reasoning or action. It often has a more formal or technical connotation than 'assumption'.

• Her argument contains several presuppositions that need to be examined.
• The theory is built on the presupposition that all participants are honest.

Used primarily to refer to the grounds and buildings of a particular place, especially in a legal or business context.

• The restaurant is allowed to serve alcohol on its premises.
• Smoking is not allowed on the school premises.

Often used to describe land or buildings that someone owns, or to refer to physical possessions.

• The property includes a large house and two acres of land.
• They own several rental properties in the city.

Used mainly to describe a specific area of ground where something is located, especially a building or construction project.

• This site was chosen for the new shopping mall.
• Construction on the site is scheduled to start next month.

This word is used to talk about a specific place or position where something is situated.

• The company is moving to a new location downtown.
• They searched for a suitable location to set up their picnic.

Use this word when introducing a basic idea or assumption that forms the basis for a logical argument or reasoning. It often precedes detailed discussion or analysis.

• The premise of the movie is intriguing
• The whole argument is built on a false premise

A 'declaration' is used for formal or official announcements, often made publicly. It may also imply a strong, unequivocal statement.

• The company made a declaration of its new policies
• The Declaration of Independence is an important historical document

This term is suitable when referring to a confident and forceful statement of fact or belief. It implies a degree of insistence or conviction.

• His assertion that he was innocent was not believed by the jury
• The scientist's assertion was later proven to be accurate

This is a general term that can apply to any expression of an idea, fact, or opinion. It is neutral and can range from formal to informal settings.

• She made a statement to the police
• His statement was clear and concise