assume

To assume is to believe something is true or believe that something is going to happen, but sometimes a belief in present circumstances or the future is incorrect.

• Richard assumed that he was going to get promoted to a managerial position at work, but the job was given to someone else.
• Everyone in Janet’s family has gone to college, so she assumes that she will do the same.
• I assumed my car would be ready by the time I showed up at the garage, and I was correct.
• Don’t assume that everything will go as planned.

To assume is also to take on a responsibility or take someone else’s position:

• Wendy will assume more responsibility at work now that she’s a supervisor.
• Arthur Hessenfender assumed full control of the company after he bought it.
• The U.S. military assumed control over certain areas of Germany at the conclusion of World War II.

The word "assumption" is a noun.

• It’s not a good idea to make too many assumptions about where you will end up in life.
• Joel has made no assumptions about whether or not his girlfriend will agree to marry him.
• To believe that you don’t need health insurance because you are healthy and young may turn out to be an incorrect assumption.
• False assumptions about the direction of the economy were responsible for a severe recession.

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This page was published on June 1, 2017.