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Presumptive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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presumptive

[prɪˈzʌm(p)tɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in law

Of, relating to, or based on presumption; presuming or showing presumption.

Synonyms

assumed, presumed, supposed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presumptive

Use 'presumptive' when referring to something that is taken to be true based on reasonable evidence but not yet verified. It’s often used in legal or scientific contexts.

  • The presumptive diagnosis is based on the initial symptoms
  • The presumptive nominee for the political party has not yet been officially announced
assumed

Use 'assumed' when referring to something that is taken for granted without proof. It implies that the belief or expectation is accepted as true without verification.

  • It was assumed that he would finish the project on time
  • She assumed the role of leader in his absence
supposed

Use 'supposed' when referring to a belief or assumption that is not necessarily backed by evidence. It can also imply doubt or skepticism about the truth of the assumption.

  • She is supposed to be the best dancer in the group
  • His supposed intentions were never clear
presumed

Use 'presumed' when something is believed to be true based on probability or previous evidence. Often used in a formal context, similar to 'presumptive' but can be more general.

  • He is presumed innocent until proven guilty
  • The missing person is presumed dead after the extensive search

Examples of usage

  • The presumptive heir to the throne.
  • The presumptive father of the child.
  • A presumptive diagnosis.
Context #2 | Adjective

general use

Presumed to be true without conclusive evidence.

Synonyms

apparent, likely, probable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presumptive

Use 'presumptive' when referring to something that is based on reasonable grounds or evidence but not yet proven. Often used in legal or medical contexts.

  • The presumptive diagnosis is influenza, but further tests are needed.
  • He is the presumptive heir to the throne.
apparent

Use 'apparent' when something seems to be clearly understood or visible, often without the need for further proof. It can imply that the truth is obvious.

  • It was apparent that she was upset about something.
  • The apparent lack of progress is concerning to the team.
probable

Use 'probable' when discussing something that is more likely than not to happen, often based on more formal analysis or evidence.

  • It is probable that he will arrive late due to traffic.
  • Given the evidence, it is probable that the market will recover.
likely

Use 'likely' when discussing something that has a high probability of happening based on evidence or general situation. It is commonly used in everyday speech.

  • It is likely to rain this evening.
  • She is likely to get the promotion.

Examples of usage

  • The presumptive winner of the competition.
  • The presumptive cause of the disease.
  • A presumptive conclusion.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In law, 'presumptive' often refers to a presumption of innocence, meaning someone is assumed innocent until proven guilty.
  • Medical professionals may use presumptive evidence to diagnose conditions based on symptoms rather than definitive tests.
  • Presumptive tax rules can apply where individuals or entities are taxed based on presumed income rather than actual finances.

Psychology

  • Cognitive biases lead people to make presumptive judgments about others based on first impressions.
  • Social psychology studies suggest that presumptive thinking can influence how individuals respond in social situations.
  • Overreliance on presumptive judgments can result in stereotyping, affecting perceptions and relationships.

Pop Culture

  • In various TV shows and movies, characters often make presumptive assumptions that lead to misunderstandings humorously.
  • Presumptive elements are often used in mystery stories where the audience is led to draw conclusions about what they see.
  • Reality TV frequently showcases presumptive narratives, as contestants assume others' strategies without clear evidence.

Education

  • In educational assessments, teachers might use presumptive grading based on prior knowledge rather than current performance.
  • Discussions on presumptive learning highlight how students might infer information from existing knowledge to fill gaps.
  • Understanding presumptive reasoning is crucial for developing critical thinking skills, as it encourages questioning assumptions.

Origin of 'presumptive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'presumptive' comes from the Latin 'praesumptivus', meaning 'taken for granted'.
  • It began being used in English in the late 15th century, mainly in legal circles to indicate assumptions made by law.
  • Related words include 'presume', which shares the idea of taking something as true without proof.

The word 'presumptive' originated from the Latin word 'praesumptivus', which is derived from 'praesumere' meaning 'to take beforehand'. The term has been used in various contexts, including law and general discussions, to indicate something assumed or believed to be true without complete evidence. Over time, 'presumptive' has become a commonly used adjective in the English language to describe situations where conclusions are drawn based on available information.

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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,854, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.