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In this lesson we will learn how to use ‘assume’ and ‘presume’ without getting confused.
Hi, everybody. Today, we’re going to learn the difference between ‘presume’ and ‘assume’.
They are very similar in meaning, but ‘assume’ may have extra uses.
That’s right, Kevin. ‘Presume’ means to believe something is possible or reasonable when we can’t prove the contrary.
When we presume, we suppose something without proof, based on probability.
Right. Like, ‘I presume you’re tired after a long trip’. And ‘assume’ means to accept that something is true without proof.
Yes. We assume when we accept something as truth without checking.
As you can see, they are very similar. But we can also use ‘assume’ in other ways.
For example, it can mean that you take something upon yourself.
That’s right, Kevin. For example, ‘I’ll assume responsibility if anything goes wrong’.
You got, it, Homer. Another way to use ‘assume’ is when you take the duties, or responsibilities, of an office, for example.
I see. My brother recently assumed the presidency of the company where he works. He’s a great professional.
Wow! Congratulations! That’s really good news!
Yes. We’re very proud of him.
You should be! I presume he’s experienced.
He’s very young, but he started working at a very young age.
I assume he’s intelligent.
Very much!! We all believe he’ll go far in his career.
Well, I hope so! He certainly deserves it!! Let’s take a look at some dialogues with more examples.
Hi, Trey. What’s happened here?
Hi, Bridget. I’m not sure, but I assume it’s suicide.
Why?
Because the door was locked from the inside
I presume you were the first to arrive.
That’s right, Bridget. As always, I was the first on the scene.
Well, I’ve assumed control of the investigation. Captain Ross wants results.
I presume it’s because the governor’s niece is involved. I assume we’ll report directly to the Captain on this one.
Yes. He said we’re not supposed to talk to anyone but him. I presume you want to work this case with me.
Absolutely! I was the only one with you at the scene.
While we were there, I assumed you were going to let me in on the case, so I took some notes that I want to share with you.
Great! Good job, Bridget. I presume you want to show me your notes before we talk to the captain.
Certainly. Let’s grab a cup of coffee.
‘I presume you’re tired after a long trip’.
‘I’ll assume responsibility if anything goes wrong’.
I presume he’s experienced.
I assume he’s intelligent.
I presume you were the first to arrive.
Well, I’ve assumed control of the investigation.
I presume it’s because the governor’s niece is involved.
I assume we’ll report directly to the Captain on this one.
I presume you want to work this case with me.