Presumptuous: meaning, definitions and examples

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presumptuous

 

[ prɪˈzʌmpʧuəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

in behavior

Failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate; overstepping bounds.

Synonyms

arrogant, audacious, forward, impertinent.

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Word Description / Examples
presumptuous

This word is used when someone takes liberties or assumes a right without permission, often behaving inappropriately.

  • It was presumptuous of him to assume he could invite all his friends to the party.
arrogant

This word describes someone who has an exaggerated sense of their own importance, often looking down on others.

  • She found his arrogant manner very off-putting during the interview.
audacious

Often used in a more positive sense, this word describes someone who is bold and willing to take risks, but it can also imply rudeness.

  • Her audacious plan to climb the highest mountain inspired everyone.
  • It was audacious of him to interrupt the speaker so abruptly.
impertinent

Used when someone shows a lack of respect by being rude or intrusive.

  • His impertinent remarks were not appreciated by the guests.
forward

This word is typically used to describe someone who is overly bold in their behavior, often seeming disrespectful or overly familiar.

  • He was a bit too forward with his compliments, making her uncomfortable.

Examples of usage

  • He acted presumptuously by making decisions without consulting his team.
  • Don't be so presumptuous as to think you know what's best for everyone.
Context #2 | Adjective

in speech

Failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate; overstepping bounds in one's manner of speaking.

Synonyms

bold, cheeky, disrespectful, insolent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
presumptuous

This word is used when someone takes liberties or assumes things they shouldn't, often stepping over boundaries in social or professional contexts.

  • It was presumptuous of him to assume he could just borrow her car without asking
bold

Typically used in a positive sense, this describes someone who is courageous, confident, and willing to take risks.

  • She made a bold decision to start her own business
cheeky

This word is often used to describe playful or irreverent behavior, particularly in a light-hearted or endearing manner.

  • The cheeky child stole a cookie from the jar before dinner
disrespectful

Used when someone shows a lack of respect or courtesy, especially towards someone in a position of authority. This word carries a negative connotation.

  • His disrespectful comments to the teacher earned him a detention
insolent

This word describes someone who is openly rude, disrespectful, or arrogant, often towards someone who deserves respect. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • The employee's insolent attitude towards his manager got him fired

Examples of usage

  • Her presumptuous remarks offended many people in the room.
  • It was presumptuous of him to assume he knew more than the expert.

Translations

Translations of the word "presumptuous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 presunçoso

🇮🇳 अहंकारी

🇩🇪 anmaßend

🇮🇩 sombong

🇺🇦 самовпевнений

🇵🇱 zarozumiały

🇯🇵 思い上がった

🇫🇷 présomptueux

🇪🇸 presuntuoso

🇹🇷 küstah

🇰🇷 건방진

🇸🇦 مغرور

🇨🇿 domýšlivý

🇸🇰 domýšľavý

🇨🇳 自负的

🇸🇮 prezriv

🇮🇸 hroki

🇰🇿 өзінше

🇬🇪 თავკაცური

🇦🇿 özündən razı

🇲🇽 presuntuoso

Etymology

The word 'presumptuous' originates from the Latin word 'praesumptuosus', which means 'full of forethought' or 'anticipating'. Over time, the meaning evolved to denote someone who acts without proper authority or permission. The concept of presumptuousness has been a part of human interactions for centuries, often associated with arrogance or disrespect.

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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,812, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.