C1adverb5K

Presumably

UK /["/prɪˈzjuːməbli/"]/US /["/prɪˈzuːməbli/"]/

Definition

used to say that you think that something is probably true

In simple words: It is likely or expected that something is true.

Examples

  • Presumably this is where the accident happened.
  • You'll be taking the car, presumably?
  • I couldn't concentrate, presumably because I was so tired.
  • Presumably you’ll be leaving the children at home.

Usage notes

Use 'presumably' when you think something is true but don't have definite proof. It’s more formal than using 'probably' and is often used in writing or serious conversations.

Grammar pattern

presumably + clause

Memory hint

Sounds like 'please assume' — imagine someone asking you to make a logical assumption.

Collocations

  • presumably true
  • presumably based
  • presumably understood

Synonyms

  • probably
  • likely
  • assumed
  • expected
  • presumed

Antonyms

  • doubtfully
  • questionably

Common mistakes

  • Used in informal situations where a casual word would be better.
  • Confused with 'presume', which has a different grammatical structure.
  • Overused in statements where certainty is needed.