Confusing words explained
“presume” vs “assume” — What’s the Difference?
Similar meaning but 'presume' is more formal and suggests assumption based on probability; 'assume' is more general
Key takeaway
Quick Difference: presume vs assume
Similar meaning but 'presume' is more formal and suggests assumption based on probability; 'assume' is more general
presume vs assume Side-by-Side Comparison
Meaning of presume
To suppose or assume something to be the case on the basis of probability; to believe without certain proof.
To think or suppose something is true without having complete proof. You assume based on what seems likely.
Formal and common in academic and legal contexts. Use when suggesting a logical assumption. 'Presumably' is the adverb form, very common in academic writing for hedging claims.
- We can presume that the meeting will start on time based on past experience.
- The court presumed the defendant innocent until proven guilty.
Meaning of assume
To suppose something is true without proof; to take on a responsibility.
To believe or accept something without checking if it is true, or to accept a responsibility.
Use 'assume' when you believe something without definite proof, or when officially taking on a duty.
- I assume you have your passport with you.
- The manager will assume control of the department next month.
How to Remember the Difference
Assume with no evidence; presume with at least some Probable reason.
Common Mistakes with presume and assume
Mistake with presume
Wrong: I presume about the situation.
Correct: I presume the situation is serious. / I presume that the situation is serious.
'Presume' takes an object or clause, not 'about'. Say 'presume (that)' or 'presume + noun + adjective'.
Mistake with presume
Wrong: You can presume to know my thoughts.
Correct: You cannot presume to know my thoughts. / You can presume my thoughts are private.
'Presume to' means 'dare to' and is used differently. For 'suppose', use 'presume that' or 'presume + object'.
Mistake with presume
Wrong: We presume wrong information.
Correct: We presume the information is wrong. / The information is presumably wrong.
Use 'presume + noun + adjective' or the adverb 'presumably'. Don't say 'presume wrong/correct'.
Mistake with assume
Wrong: I assume that he is coming tomorrow.
Correct: I assume he is coming tomorrow.
After 'assume', 'that' is optional in informal speech; 'I assume he is...' is more natural.
Practice Quiz: presume or assume?
Choose the word that best completes each real example sentence.
Question 1
We can _____ that the meeting will start on time based on past experience.
Question 2
I _____ you have completed the assignment by now.
Question 3
I _____ you have your passport with you.
Pick at least one answer, then press Check answers to see how you did.
You scored 0 out of 3
Frequently Asked Questions About presume vs assume
What’s the difference between “presume” and “assume”?
Similar meaning but 'presume' is more formal and suggests assumption based on probability; 'assume' is more general
When should I use “presume”?
Formal and common in academic and legal contexts. Use when suggesting a logical assumption. 'Presumably' is the adverb form, very common in academic writing for hedging claims.
When should I use “assume”?
Use 'assume' when you believe something without definite proof, or when officially taking on a duty.
How can I remember presume vs assume?
Assume with no evidence; presume with at least some Probable reason.
Is it “presume” or “assume” in example sentences?
Use the quiz above to test the pair with real example sentences from the available word data.