Presumably Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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presumably

[prษชหˆzjuหmษ™bli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

inference

Used to convey that something is supposed or assumed to be true, based on the available evidence or information.

Synonyms

apparently, ostensibly, supposedly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presumably

Use when you believe something is likely true based on the information you have.

  • Sheโ€™s not here yet, so presumably sheโ€™s stuck in traffic
supposedly

When mentioning something you have heard or believed to be true, but you are not entirely convinced about it.

  • Heโ€™s supposedly the best doctor in town, but Iโ€™ve heard mixed reviews
apparently

Suitable for expressing something that appears to be true based on available evidence, often when you did not initially know this information.

  • Apparently, the meeting was canceled
ostensibly

Use when something appears to be true but might not be the actual case, often implying doubt or hidden reasons.

  • He visited ostensibly to see her, but actually wanted to discuss business

Examples of usage

  • He is presumably the best candidate for the job.
  • Presumably, they will arrive before noon.
  • The package will presumably be delivered tomorrow.
Context #2 | Adverb

expectation

Used to indicate what is reasonably expected or likely to happen.

Synonyms

anticipated, likely, probably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presumably

Used when making an assumption based on available information, but without certainty. Often implies a thoughtful guess.

  • Presumably, she has already left for the airport
  • The meeting is presumably going to end by 3 PM
likely

Used to indicate that something has a high probability of happening. It is often neutral and used in both positive and negative situations.

  • It is likely to rain tomorrow
  • Their team is likely to win the championship
probably

Used when something is considered more certain than 'possibly' but not as strong as 'definitely.' It suggests a strong likelihood but leaves room for doubt.

  • She will probably come to the party
  • This new policy will probably affect a lot of people
anticipated

Used when something is expected to happen, often based on a plan or previous experience. It can imply positive or neutral expectation.

  • The launch of the new product is highly anticipated
  • He anticipated that the traffic would be heavy during rush hour

Examples of usage

  • Presumably, the meeting will start on time.
  • The price will presumably increase next month.
  • She will presumably be at the party.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Grammar

  • It's an adverb, often used to introduce an opinion or assumption in a sentence.
  • In conversations, it helps clarify that the speaker is making an educated guess rather than stating facts.
  • It can function similarly to 'probably' or 'likely,' but often with a more formal tone.

Cultural References

  • Used frequently in legal contexts to describe assumptions based on evidence, making it essential in law-related discussions.
  • Popular in scientific literature, where researchers often indicate their assumptions based on preliminary data.
  • Seen in everyday media, from news articles to discussions, where uncertainty needs to be communicated.

Psychology

  • Assumptions play a crucial role in decision-making processes, as they help individuals make quick judgments.
  • Cognitive biases can affect what we presume, leading us to believe things without complete information.
  • The ability to presume correctly can relate to someoneโ€™s critical thinking skills and experience.

Literature

  • Often found in narrative styles, it allows authors to show characters' internal thought processes.
  • Philosophical texts use the word to discuss beliefs and assertions that rely on inference rather than proof.
  • Mystery novels frequently employ 'presumably' to create tension as characters piece together clues.

Origin of 'presumably'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'praesumere,' meaning 'to take for granted, assume.'
  • It was first used in English in the early 17th century, showing our interest in speculation and assumptions.
  • The prefix 'pre-' suggests something happening before, while 'sume' is linked to taking up or choosing.

The word 'presumably' originated from the combination of the word 'presume' and the suffix '-ably'. 'Presume' comes from the Latin word 'praesumere', which means 'to take for granted'. Over time, 'presumably' has evolved to convey the sense of inference or expectation in English language.


See also: presume, presumed, presumption, presumptive, presumptuous.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,265, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.