What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspect
Example
The police suspect that the thief entered through the window. [suspect: verb]
Example
I suspect that he's lying about his whereabouts. [suspect: verb]
Example
She is the main suspect in the murder case. [suspect: noun]
suppose
Example
I suppose we could go to the beach if the weather is nice. [suppose: modal verb]
Example
Suppose you were stranded on a deserted island, what would you do? [suppose: verb]
Example
I'm supposed to meet her at the restaurant at 7 pm. [supposed to: phrasal verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Suppose is more commonly used than suspect in everyday language. Suppose is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while suspect is less common and typically used in legal or criminal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between suspect and suppose?
Both suspect and suppose can be used in formal and informal contexts, but suspect may be more formal due to its association with legal or criminal contexts.