What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
presupposition
Example
The presupposition of this argument is that all people are created equal. [presupposition: noun]
Example
She presupposed that I would be available to help her with the project. [presupposed: verb]
assumption
Example
He made the assumption that I would be interested in going to the concert. [assumption: noun]
Example
Assuming that the weather will be good, we plan to have a picnic tomorrow. [assuming: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assumption is more commonly used than presupposition in everyday language. Assumption is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while presupposition is less common and has a more technical connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between presupposition and assumption?
Presupposition is typically associated with a more formal and technical tone, while assumption can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.