Presume vs Assume
What’s the difference between them?
Presume
Meaning:
To guess something based on evidence.
Examples:
1. The teacher presumed that student cheated during the exam.
2. The court presumed the defendant was guilty.
3. I presume you have completed the task.
Assume
Meaning:
To guess something with a little or without evidence.
Examples:
1. I'm going to assume you know the answer.
2. She assumed responsibility for the project.
3. We assumed he would be there on time.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Presume
suppose
Assume
Assume
suppose
Presume
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Presume", "Assume".
1. Remember that prefix 'pre-' stands for clear evidence, while 'as-' stands for no evidence.
2. Associate 'assuming' with being more tentative and uncertain, while 'pressumin' is more confident and sure.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When to use the first word?
The word 'presume' is typically used when there is an expectation that something will happen or is true. For example, 'I presume they will arrive on time.' or 'I presume you've already eaten.'
When to use the second word?
The word 'assume' is used when someone is taking something as true without proof. For example, 'I assume you finished the project.' or 'I assume you know the answer.'
Do the words have the same pronunciation?
No, the words have slightly different pronunciations. 'Presume' is pronounced as /prɪˈzuːm/, while 'assume' is pronounced as /əˈsuːm/.
What are common mistakes associated with words?
One of the most common mistakes associated with using the words 'presume' and 'assume' is that they are interchangeable. While they may have similar meanings, they are not the same. Another mistake is mispronouncing them, as the pronunciation of one is different from that of the other.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. We can __________ that everyone in attendance has read the document.
2. We cant __________ that everyone understands the meaning of the document.
3. We should never __________ that everyone is working together.
4. We shouldnt __________ that everyone will agree with the decision.
5. __________ that everyone is on the same page is a dangerous assumption.
6. We cant __________ that everyone is working toward the same goal.
1. Assume
Explanation: To assume something is to take it for granted, to accept it without question or proof.
2. Presume
Explanation: To presume something is to suppose it to be true, or to think it likely to be true without knowing for sure.
3. Presume
Explanation: To presume something is to suppose it to be true, or to think it likely to be true without knowing for sure.
4. Presume
Explanation: To presume something is to suppose it to be true, or to think it likely to be true without knowing for sure.
5. Presuming
Explanation: To presume is an action, so the present participle form of the word (presuming) is used here. It means to suppose or to think it likely to be true without knowing for sure.
6. Presume
Explanation: To presume something is to suppose it to be true, or to think it likely to be true without knowing for sure.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.