What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
speculate
Example
The media is speculating about the cause of the accident. [speculating: verb]
Example
I can only speculate about what will happen next. [speculate: verb]
assume
Example
Don't assume that I'm not interested just because I didn't respond right away. [assume: verb]
Example
I assumed that the meeting was cancelled since no one showed up. [assumed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assume is more commonly used than speculate in everyday language. Assume is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while speculate is less common and is often used in journalism and scientific research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between speculate and assume?
While speculate is typically associated with a formal tone, assume is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
