assume
/əˈsjuːm/ IELTSAcademic
verb
- 1.
To think something is true without checking it first. You use it when you make a likely guess based on limited information.
- I assumed he was already at home.
- Don't assume the answer before reading the question.
- We assumed the train was delayed.
- 2.
To take responsibility for a role, duty, or problem. This use is common in formal and business English.
- She assumed control of the team.
- He assumed responsibility for the mistake.
- The manager assumed a new role last month.
Adinary Nuance
Assume is close to believe, think, and suppose, but it often means you decide something is true without proof. Believe is stronger and more personal; think is more neutral and everyday. Assume can also mean 'take on' a role or duty, which the other words do not.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- cho rằng
- Spanish
- suponer
- Chinese
- 假设
- Japanese
- 仮定する
- Korean
- 가정하다
Etymology
Assume comes from Latin assumere, meaning 'to take up' or 'take to oneself'. It entered English through Old French in the late Middle Ages.
Common phrases
assume responsibilityassume controlassume thatassume a role
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is assume the same as think?
- Not exactly. Assume means you accept something as true, often without proof.
- When should I use assume in formal writing?
- Use it in formal writing for guesses, conclusions, or taking responsibility for something.
- What is the difference between assume and presume?
- Assume is a general guess. Presume often sounds more careful or more formal.
- Can assume mean 'take over'?
- Yes. It can mean to take on a duty, role, or responsibility.