presumably

American  

[pri-zoo-muh-blee] / prɪˈzu mə bli /

adverb

1. by assuming reasonably; probably.

   Since he is a consistent winner, he is presumably a superior player.

   Synonyms:

   apparently, likely, doubtless

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presumably British  

/ prɪˈzjuːməblɪ /

adverb

1. (sentence modifier) one presumes or supposes that

   presumably he won't see you, if you're leaving tomorrow

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Etymology

Origin of presumably

First recorded in 1640–50; presumable + -ly

Example Sentences

It was a civic guessing game as to where the presumably late Mrs. Scott might be — maybe under an avalanche of concrete being poured for one of L.A.’s new freeways.

From Los Angeles Times

Whatever Congress expected to happen when it passed a law mandating the release of the Epstein files, presumably it wasn’t the arrest of a British former prince, apparently for sharing confidential information.

From The Wall Street Journal

The comment was notable because presumably Clark wouldn’t have advance knowledge of a forthcoming legal action.

From Los Angeles Times

A woman—presumably Chip’s mom—said unhappily, “You always have to watch the blood-and-guts shows.”

From Literature

It’s a germane question not only because Mr. Rubio presumably wants one day to be the party’s standard-bearer.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• apparently
• doubtless
• probably
• seemingly
• supposedly
• surely