Presumed
[prɪˈzjuːmd]
Definitions
2 meaningsTo suppose or assume that something is the case on the basis of probability, typically in the absence of proof.
[prɪˈzjuːm]
To suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability.
I presumed he would come to the party.
💡 Simply: It's like when you guess something is true, even if you don't have all the facts. For example, if you see dark clouds, you might presume it's going to rain. Or if someone doesn't answer, you might presume they're busy.
👶 For kids: To think something is probably true, even if you don't know for sure.
More Examples
The police presumed the suspect's guilt.
We can presume the meeting will be short.
How It's Used
"In the legal system, a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty."
"We can presume that the flight will be on time."
To behave in a presumptuous manner; to act without proper authority or permission.
[prɪˈzjuːm]
To behave in a presumptuous way.
It would be presumptuous of me to offer advice.
💡 Simply: To act like you know or deserve something without really having a right to it. Like, it's presumptuous to assume you can cut in line or that someone owes you something.
👶 For kids: To act like you're too important or that you can do something without permission.
More Examples
She was criticized for being presumptuous.
He was presuming upon their friendship.
How It's Used
"He was being presumptuous by thinking he was invited."
"It's presumptuous to expect special treatment."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
presumed dead
Officially declared dead, usually after a period of disappearance or in the absence of evidence to the contrary.
"After a year without contact, the missing sailor was presumed dead."
presumed innocent
A legal principle that a person is considered innocent until proven guilty.
"The suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty."
From Middle English *presumen*, from Old French *presumer* (to take for granted), from Latin *praesumere* (to anticipate, to take beforehand), from *prae-* (before) + *sumere* (to take).
Historically, the word 'presume' had a broader usage, encompassing both to take something for granted and to act with boldness or arrogance. Its legal and more specific usages have become more pronounced over time.
Memory tip
Pre-SUM-e – Before we see the SUM of the evidence, we ASSUME something.
Word Origin
"to anticipate; to take beforehand"