The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

assume

IPA:

Dictionary definition of assume

To take or accep something to be true, without concrete evidence or proof.
"The teacher asked the students to assume different roles for a class exercise."

Detailed meaning of assume

When one assumes, they make an inference or believe something based on limited information, personal judgment, or perception. It can involve supposing or taking on a certain belief or attitude without verification. Assumption often entails making an educated guess or considering a situation or statement to be factual, even if it is not explicitly confirmed. In some cases, assuming can involve taking on a role or responsibility based on a perceived understanding or expectation. It is important to note that assumptions can be prone to inaccuracies or misunderstandings, as they are not always based on direct evidence or explicit confirmation. Therefore, it is crucial to verify and question assumptions when necessary to avoid misunderstandings or errors in judgment.

Example sentences containing assume

1. You must assume responsibility for your actions.
2. The detective will assume a false identity for the undercover operation.
3. We cannot simply assume that everything will go according to plan.
4. You should not assume that silence means agreement.
5. The team leader will assume control of the project next week.
6. She will assume the role of CEO after her father retires.

History and etymology of assume

The verb 'assume' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'assumere,' which is a combination of 'ad-' (meaning 'to') and 'sumere' (meaning 'to take'). In Latin, 'assumere' had the sense of taking something upon oneself or taking it for oneself without concrete evidence. It often carried connotations of responsibility or obligation. As the word evolved, it transitioned into Old French as 'assumer,' and from there, it became 'assume' in English. In its contemporary usage, 'assume' signifies the act of taking something to be true or accepting it as a fact, often without definitive proof. The etymology of 'assume' underscores the historical idea of taking something upon oneself, including beliefs or statements, even in the absence of concrete evidence or certainty.

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Further usage examples of assume

1. During the crisis, the military will assume command of the operations.
2. For this theory to hold, we must assume that the data is accurate.
3. He will assume the burden of paying off the family debt.
4. In chess, never assume your opponent's next move.
5. To make progress, one must assume the risk of failure.
6. The charity organization will assume the task of distributing relief goods.
7. You cannot assume everyone shares your point of view.
8. She will assume the lead role in the school play.
9. In the book, the main character will assume a new identity.
10. To solve this equation, we need to assume that 'x' is a positive integer.
11. The new coach will assume charge of the football team next season.
12. Never assume a wild animal is friendly.
13. In his absence, she will assume the duties of the manager.
14. The system will assume normal operations after the maintenance work.