Assume vs Presume

Assume

The verb assume means to take something upon without any proof. Some synonyms are to suppose, or take for granted. Assume can also mean to begin to have some power or huge responsibility. Assume originated from the Latin word ad (towards) + sumere (take) or assumere.

• I assumed you will be at home all day.
• Assume that you are in an island and have no access to food or water. What will you do?
• This conclusion is based on lot of assumptions, so it may be incorrect.
• I am assuming you want to meet the HR for your salary issue.
• The new CEO will assume office from tomorrow.
• We will be assuming the control of this office from the next month.

Presume

Presume is synonymous with assume but the difference is that it is based on some probability. Presume has its roots from the Latin praesumere meaning ‘anticipate’.

Examples –

• Since you are not working, I presumed you would be at home today.
• He was not sure about presuming the friendship between them.
• I presume that after reading this book we will have a basic understanding of human psychology.
• She presumed the entire work would need only one person, based on the estimated time.
• As the witnesses did not turn in, I presume the case will be considered closed.

Both presume and assume are not totally based on facts, however presume sure has some probability associated based on some conditions, however assumption is totally based on perspective and not any facts or proof. Remember presume - possibility or probability! Check out our article on Think vs Suppose vs Assume to understand the difference between these three.