Presumptuous: meaning, definitions and examples

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presumptuous

[prɪˈzʌmpʧuəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in behavior

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

Synonyms

arrogant, audacious, forward, impertinent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'praesumere', meaning 'to take for granted' or 'to take up beforehand'.
It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century, evolving from a more general sense of 'taking for granted' to its current connotation of boldness.
Early uses often referred to someone taking liberties or acting beyond their rights.

Psychology

Overconfidence, which is a form of being presumptuous, can lead to poor decision-making because individuals trust their judgment too much.
Research in social psychology suggests that people often underestimate how others perceive their presumptuous behavior, leading to misunderstandings.
Being presumptuous in social situations can trigger negative reactions from others, as it may come off as disrespectful or rude.

Literature

In Shakespeare's plays, characters often exhibit presumptuous behavior, which frequently leads to their downfall, highlighting the theme of hubris.
Literary works from various cultures depict presumptuous characters who act without considering consequences, often providing moral lessons.
Modern novels often explore the tension between presumptuous protagonists and more cautious characters, showcasing conflict and growth.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, being presumptuous is viewed negatively, especially in formal or respectful settings where humility is valued.
Some societies celebrate boldness and initiative, while others may consider it disrespectful to overstep boundaries.
Proverbs in various languages warn against presumptuousness, suggesting a universal recognition of its potential pitfalls.

Social Dynamics

In group settings, presumptuous individuals can disrupt team dynamics, causing others to feel undervalued or ignored.
Presumptuous behavior can either lead to innovation and leaps of faith or result in interpersonal conflict depending on context.
People who are seen as presumptuous may struggle with trust, as others might question their motives or sincerity.

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

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.

...
17809 punctuated
17810 crook
17811 subcontract
17812 presumptuous
17813 congestive
17814 grinder
17815 hematite
...