To suppose something is true without having complete evidence
Examples:
'Do not talk about presuming, Ma, for goodness' sake.He isn't here now, I presume."'A miniature, I presume.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Assume
/əˈsjuːm/
To think something is true without proof
Examples:
Newman left off rubbing his hands, and assumed a thoughtful look.On rainy days like this the town assumes its true appearance.Thus Silas assuming a noble air.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
Presume often implies a higher degree of confidence or probability based on evidence or experience than assume.
If you presume something, it often has the implication of a well-founded belief or deduction.
When you assume something, it often starts with a hypothesis without complete evidence or confirmation.
Assume is often used when you have no evidence and are beginning an initial guess.
Presume leans towards acting upon the belief that something is true, while assume often results in forming a guess.