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Presume and assume are two words that have the same root and only differ because they have different prefixes. However, these prefixes play a big role and, as if often happens in the English language, change the meaning of the whole word. Thus, just a few different letters can create confusion in writing and in speaking. But what exactly is the difference between presume vs. assume?
Presume vs. Assume: Know the Difference
Quick Tips:
- Use “presume” when you’re making a judgment based on evidence, likelihood, or experience.
- Use “assume” when you’re making a guess without much information or certainty.
Presume vs. Assume: Definition, Usage
Presume:
- Meaning: To believe something is true based on probability, evidence, or reasonable grounds, but without definite proof. There is more confidence or authority in presumption.
- Use: Often used when making an informed guess or judgment based on available information or logic.
- Examples:
- “The court must presume innocence until guilt is proven.”
- “I presume you’ve already heard the news.”
- Explanation: “Presume” suggests a belief based on reasonable grounds or prior experience, often implying more certainty than “assume.”
Assume:
- Meaning: To take something for granted or to accept it as true without proof or evidence. There is less certainty, and the assumption may be made with little or no information.
- Use: Often used when someone is making a guess or expectation without solid evidence.
- Examples:
- “I assume he’ll be here by noon, but I’m not sure.”
- “You shouldn’t assume she’s angry just because she’s quiet.”
- Explanation: “Assume” implies a more speculative guess or acceptance of something without concrete proof.
Common Mistakes with Presume and Assume
Using “assume” when “presume” would be more appropriate:
- Incorrect: “The judge will assume the defendant is innocent.”
- Correct: “The judge will presume the defendant is innocent.”
- Explanation: “Presume” is appropriate because it’s based on the legal principle of presumed innocence until proven guilty.
Using “presume” for baseless guesses:
- Incorrect: “I presume she’s coming, but I have no idea.”
- Correct: “I assume she’s coming, but I have no idea.”
- Explanation: “Assume” is more appropriate here because it suggests a guess without evidence.
Presume vs. Assume Examples
Examples of “presume”
- I presume you’ve finished your homework since you’re watching TV now.
- The jury must not presume guilt; instead, it should carefully consider all the evidence presented.
- We presume that the meeting will take place at noon unless we hear otherwise.
- Based on the empty house and the packed bags, the detectives presumed that the family had left in a hurry.
- Due to his extensive experience in the field, we can safely presume he’s the right candidate for the job.
- If you don’t RSVP to the invitation, the hosts might presume you’re not coming to the event.
Examples of “assume”
- He didn’t say anything, but I assume he agrees with the decision since he nodded.
- Many people assume that a higher price tag means better quality, but this isn’t always the case.
- When you didn’t show up on time, we had to assume you got caught in traffic.
- It’s not safe to assume that the ice is thick enough to walk on without checking first.
- She will assume the role of director in the upcoming play.
- The new manager will assume his duties starting next Monday.
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