In this video, we’re going to look at the difference between the words assume and presume.
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First, let’s look at presume.
To presume means to believe something to be true because it is likely, though you are
not certain.
There is no proof, however, the belief is based on some probability or some evidence.
I presume they’re not coming as they haven’t replied to the wedding invitation.
In British law, an individual is presumed innocent until they are proven guilty.
Presume also means to do something although you know you haven't been given the right
to do it or you haven’t been given permission
I’m not qualified in this subject so it would be presumptuous of me to comment.
Here presumptuous is used as an adjective.
I don’t wish to presume, however, maybe you two should consider talking.
Here, presume is used to make a suggestion when perhaps the individual has no right to
do this.
A short word on pronunciation.
Most British accents, however, not the Northern Irish one, pronounce presume with an extra
/j/ sound.
Presume
/j/
Presume
American accents do not include this /j/ sound.
Presume
Listen to the difference.
Most British accents.
Presume.
American accents.
Presume.
Also note that the adverb presumably can be used.
Presumably they were able to afford their new house.
By the way this video is part of my confusing English words series.
I’ll put a link to the playlist up here and also in the description below.
Make sure to check it out after you’ve watched this video.
Next, we have assume.
To assume means to accept something to be true without any questions, without reason
and without evidence.
You can’t assume they’re guilty just because they’re not speaking.
People often make incorrect assumptions about others within seconds of meeting them.
Assume also means to be pretend to have a different name or to be someone you’re not.
After being found innocent he was relocated to a different country and assumed a different
name altogether.
During the case, two investigators assumed false identities to try and catch the criminal.
Assume has a third meaning - to take control, take on or take up.
The new CEO assumed absolute control the moment he stepped into the office.
The leader assumes power at midnight tomorrow evening.
A short word on pronunciation.
Similarly to presume, most British accents, however, not the Northern Irish one, pronounce
assume with an extra /j/ sound.
Assume.
/j/
Assume.
Again, American accents do not include this /j/ sound.
Assume
Listen to the difference.
Most British accents.
Assume.
American accents.
Assume.
It is important to note that, unlike presume, assume does not have an adverb form.
Additionally, and this is essential to understand, assume often has negative connotations.
The saying based on spelling absolutely sums it up:
You should never assume as you make an ASS out of U and ME.
That's a valuable life lesson for us all.
In the shared meaning of presume and assume, presume is usually used when you suppose based
on probability however assume is used when you have no evidence.
That's the difference.
For more confusing English words be sure to check out one of these videos.
Thanks so much for watching and I’ll see you in one of these videos!