Presumably Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
presumably
[prษชหzjuหmษbli ]
Definitions
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?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| presumably |
Use when you believe something is likely true based on the information you have.
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| supposedly |
When mentioning something you have heard or believed to be true, but you are not entirely convinced about it.
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| apparently |
Suitable for expressing something that appears to be true based on available evidence, often when you did not initially know this information.
|
| ostensibly |
Use when something appears to be true but might not be the actual case, often implying doubt or hidden reasons.
|
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.
expectation
Used to indicate what is reasonably expected or likely to happen.
Synonyms
anticipated, likely, probably.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| presumably |
Used when making an assumption based on available information, but without certainty. Often implies a thoughtful guess.
|
| likely |
Used to indicate that something has a high probability of happening. It is often neutral and used in both positive and negative situations.
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| 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.
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| anticipated |
Used when something is expected to happen, often based on a plan or previous experience. It can imply positive or neutral expectation.
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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 someoneโs 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.