verb

assume

uh-SYOOM

verb

To accept something as true without proof.

"I assumed you already knew about the change of plan."

"Don't assume the meeting is cancelled just because no one confirmed it."

To take on a role, responsibility, or form.

"She assumed the role of team leader after the reorganization."

How to Use Assume

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo take something as true without checking, or to take on a role or responsibility.

Common mistake

The old joke that "assume makes an ass of u and me" is a memory aid, not an etymology — but it captures how risky unchecked assumptions can be.

Common pairings

assume responsibility assume control safe to assume

Word Forms

assumed past tense, assume plural, assumed plural, assumes singular, assume singular, assumed singular, assumest singular, assumedst singular, assumeth singular

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

I _____ you already knew about the change of plan.

Etymology

From Latin assumere ("to take up, accept"), from ad- plus sumere ("to take").

Rhymes for assume

ume fume Hume Blume plume volume exhume resume consume perfume costume presume

See all rhymes for assume →