Presumption
[prɪˈzʌmpʃən]
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of presuming or assuming something, often without proof; a belief based on reasonable probability; an unwarranted or bold behavior or action.
[prɪˈzʌmpʃən]
An assumption of something as true, though not proven; an arrogant assumption or behavior.
He made the presumption that everyone understood the rules.
💡 Simply: Imagine you jump to conclusions without all the facts. Maybe you assume a friend is mad at you because they didn't text back right away. That's a presumption! It's like guessing before you have the full story.
👶 For kids: It means when you think something is true, but you're not sure. Like when you guess the answer before the teacher tells you.
More Examples
It is a presumption that the defendant is innocent until proven guilty.
Her presumption caused offense to the other guests at the party.
How It's Used
"The legal presumption of innocence."
"It was a presumption on his part to expect special treatment."
A foundation or underlying belief that influences thought or action.
[prɪˈzʌmpʃən]
The basis for an opinion, action, or belief.
The decision was made on the presumption that the market would continue to grow.
💡 Simply: Think about the starting point of your thinking. When you start a project with the idea that it will be successful, that's your presumption.
👶 For kids: A reason you believe something is true.
More Examples
His research was based on the presumption that people are inherently good.
We will proceed on the presumption that you have read the instructions.
How It's Used
"The presumptions of rational thought."
"Acting on the presumption of a successful outcome."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
to fly in the face of presumption
To act in a way that directly contradicts a widely held belief or expectation.
"His actions flew in the face of all presumption that he was loyal."
beyond all presumption
More than could be reasonably expected or assumed.
"The success of the project was beyond all presumption."
From Latin *praesumptio* ('a taking for granted'), from *praesumere* ('to anticipate, to take beforehand'), from *prae-* ('before') + *sumere* ('to take').
The term 'presumption' has existed in legal and philosophical contexts for centuries, often referring to an inference or assumption made based on evidence.
Memory tip
Think of 'pre-sum' - before summing up evidence, you're making a presumption.
Word Origin
"to anticipate; to take beforehand"