Definitions
- To make an educated guess or inference based on limited information. - To form an opinion or conclusion without definite proof or evidence. - To speculate or assume something to be true without concrete evidence.
- To assume something to be true without proof or evidence. - To take liberties or act without permission or authority. - To behave arrogantly or overconfidently based on one's assumptions or beliefs.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words involve making assumptions or conclusions without concrete evidence.
- 2Both words can be used to describe a mental process of forming beliefs or opinions.
- 3Both words can be used in formal and informal contexts.
What is the difference?
- 1Definition: Surmise involves making an educated guess based on limited information, while presume involves assuming something to be true without proof or evidence.
- 2Connotation: Surmise has a neutral or slightly positive connotation, while presume can have a negative or arrogant connotation.
- 3Usage: Surmise is typically used in situations where there is not enough evidence to make a definitive conclusion, while presume can be used in situations where there is no evidence at all.
- 4Authority: Presume can also refer to taking liberties or acting without permission or authority, while surmise does not have this connotation.
Remember this!
While surmise and presume both involve making assumptions or conclusions without concrete evidence, they differ in their definition, connotation, usage, authority, and etymology. Surmise involves making an educated guess based on limited information, while presume involves assuming something to be true without proof or evidence. Surmise has a neutral or slightly positive connotation, while presume can have a negative or arrogant connotation. Surmise is typically used in situations where there is not enough evidence to make a definitive conclusion, while presume can be used in situations where there is no evidence at all.
