1
Core action
Accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
Example
The analysis presumes that the records are complete.
presume
/prɪˈzjuːm/ · pri-ZOOMverb
Accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
Use presume to express this relationship precisely: accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
What presume Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
We should not presume intent from the outcome alone.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The law presumes innocence until guilt is proven.
Use presume Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The analysis presumes that the records are complete.
We should not presume intent from the outcome alone.
The law presumes innocence until guilt is proven.
Precision Matters
Presume overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
presume
vs.Means accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
infer
Means to reach a conclusion from evidence and reasoning rather than direct statement.
presume
vs.Means accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
surmise
Means to infer or guess without conclusive proof.
presume
vs.Means accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
at face value
Means according only to the apparent or literal meaning, without deeper examination.
presume
vs.Means accept or suppose something to be true without complete proof, often until evidence shows otherwise.
acknowledge
Means accept, admit, or recognise the existence or validity of a fact, claim, limitation, or contribution.
Test presume in Context
The claim should not be accepted as true without evidence.
1
Because the sample's origin is unknown, researchers should not ___ that it came from the nearby site.