assume

[əˈsjuːm]

assume Definition

• 1. suppose to be the case, without proof
• 2. take on (a specified quality, appearance, or extent)

Using assume: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "assume" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I assume he's busy because he hasn't called me back.

• Example

  Let's assume that we have enough money to buy a house.

• Example

  She assumed a new identity and moved to a different country.

• Example

  He assumed control of the company after his father retired.

assume Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for assume

• presume
• believe
• think
• take for granted

Antonyms for assume

• doubt
• disbelieve
• reject

Phrases with assume

• assume the worst

  to expect the worst possible outcome in a situation

  Example

  I always assume the worst when I don't hear from my daughter for a long time.

• assume responsibility

  to take on the duty or obligation of something

  Example

  As the manager, you need to assume responsibility for the team's performance.

• assume the position

  to take up a particular stance or posture, often used in a military context

  Example

  The soldiers were ordered to assume the position and wait for further instructions.

Origins of assume

from Latin 'assumere', meaning 'take up'

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Summary: assume in Brief

To 'assume' [əˈsjuːm] is to suppose something to be true without proof or to take on a specified quality, appearance, or extent. It can be used in phrases like 'assume the worst,' meaning to expect the worst possible outcome, or 'assume responsibility,' meaning to take on a duty or obligation. 'Assume' can be formalized as 'presume' or 'postulate,' or used informally as 'guess' or 'take for granted.'