Meaning & use
presume
Last updated
To suppose that something is true or likely without direct proof.
See it in a sentence
In the absence of any news, we presumed the ship had been delayed by the storm.
I don't want to presume, but I think this decision will save us money.
A note on using this word
Presume often carries a hint of overstepping or acting too boldly, as in 'I wouldn't presume to tell you how to do your job.'
Words with a similar meaning
assumesuppose
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Make it your own
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