What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
proleptic
Example
The proleptic use of the word 'victory' in his speech implied that he had already won. [proleptic: adjective]
Example
The prolepsis in the novel foreshadowed the tragic ending. [prolepsis: noun]
presumptive
Example
The presumptive nominee for the party was leading in the polls. [presumptive: adjective]
Example
The police arrested the presumptive suspect based on circumstantial evidence. [presumptive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Presumptive is more commonly used than proleptic in everyday language. Presumptive is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while proleptic is less common and is primarily used in literary or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between proleptic and presumptive?
While proleptic is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, presumptive is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
