B2noun2K

Assumption

UK /["/əˈsʌmpʃn/"]/US /["/əˈsʌmpʃn/"]/

Definition

a belief or feeling that something is true or that something will happen, although there is no proof

In simple words: Something you think is true without proof.

Examples

  • Her assumption that everyone would agree was proven wrong.
  • The assumption made by the researchers was crucial for their study.
  • It's a common assumption that success comes without hard work.
  • His assumption about the project's timeline turned out to be overly optimistic.
  • Don’t make assumptions without proper evidence to support them.

Usage notes

Use 'assumption' when discussing beliefs or ideas that are taken for granted. It is appropriate in both written and spoken contexts, especially in discussions related to reasoning or theories. Avoid using it in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

assumption + of something

Memory hint

Think of 'assume' in 'assumption' — imagine a person assuming something without checking first.

Collocations

  • basic
  • fundamental
  • key
  • number
  • series
  • set
  • make
  • base something on
  • start from
  • underlie something
  • underpin something
  • on the assumption that
  • assumption about

Synonyms

  • belief
  • supposition
  • presumption
  • hypothesis
  • deduction

Antonyms

  • fact
  • certainty
  • truth

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'assumption' with 'presumption', which has slightly different legal meanings.
  • Using it without a specific subject ('the assumption of...')
  • Mispronouncing it as 'assumpt-tion' instead of 'assump-tion'.