presume (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /prɪˈzjuːm/

Definition

To suppose something to be true without having proof, based on what is likely or probable.

Examples

• I presume you've already met my colleagues, Sarah and Tom.

• We must presume innocence until guilt is proven.

• He presumed that the train would be late and left home an hour later.

How to Use presume

presume that (collocation)

To suppose that a particular situation or fact is true. — "I presume that you've finished the report by now."

presume on (prepositional phrase)

To take advantage of someone's kindness or patience. — "Don't presume on my friendship to get special treatment."

presume upon (prepositional phrase)

To take advantage of someone's kindness or patience. — "He presumed upon their generosity for too long."

presume to do (prepositional phrase)

To have the audacity or courage to do something, often considered inappropriate. — "I wouldn't presume to tell you what to do."

Synonyms of presume

Words with a similar meaning to presume:

• suppose
• assume
• surmise
• conjecture

Antonyms of presume

Words with the opposite meaning to presume:

• know
• verify
• prove

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