Assumption Meaning and Definition
Assumption
Pronunciation
/əsˈpʌzɪʃn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A belief or proposition that is regarded as being established or settled, often without being explicitly proven or demonstrated, but accepted as true or valid.
Examples
- She made an assumption about the project’s timeline and budget.
- He based his assumption on incomplete data.
Synonyms
- Hypothesis
- Premise
Antonyms
- Doubt
- Skepticism
Etymology
The word “assumption” comes from the Latin “assumere,” meaning “to take or seize,” and was first used in English in the 15th century to describe the act of taking something for granted.
Usage Notes
Assumptions can be dangerous if not verified, as they can lead to misinformed conclusions or decisions.
Cultural References
Assumptions have been referenced in popular culture, such as in the phrase “assumptions are the daughters of all means” from the movie “The Princess Bride.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Idioms such as “don’t make assumptions” or “assume nothing” emphasize the importance of verifying information before making conclusions.
Related Words or Phrases
- Belief
- Premise
- Hypothesis
Collocations
Collocations such as “assumption of risk” or “assuming the role” show how the word is used in various contexts.
Frequency of Use
Assumptions are a common concept in many fields, including psychology, philosophy, and business, making it a widely used term.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “assumtion” or “assumpition.”