presumption

American  

[pri-zuhmp-shuhn] / prɪˈzʌmp ʃən /

noun

1. the act of presuming. presuming.

2. assumption of something as true.

3. belief on reasonable grounds or probable evidence.

4. something that is presumed; an assumption.

5. a ground or reason for presuming presuming or believing.

6. Law. an inference required or permitted by law as to the existence of one fact from proof of the existence of other facts.

7. an assumption, often not fully established, that is taken for granted in some piece of reasoning.

8. unwarrantable, unbecoming, or impertinent boldness.

   Synonyms:

   gall, arrogance, effrontery, audacity

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presumption British  

/ prɪˈzʌmpʃən /

noun

1. the act of presuming

2. bold or insolent behaviour or manners

3. a belief or assumption based on reasonable evidence

4. a ground or basis on which to presume

5. law an inference of the truth of a fact from other facts proved, admitted, or judicially noticed

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Other Word Forms

• overpresumption noun

Etymology

Origin of presumption

1175–1225; Middle English: effrontery, supposition < Latin praesūmptiōn- (stem of praesūmptiō ) anticipation, supposition, Late Latin: presumptuousness, equivalent to praesūmpt ( us ) (past participle of praesūmere to undertake beforehand; presume ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

"It should be noted that the presumption of innocence applies in favour of the accused," the prosecutor's office added.

From BBC

It stressed that a "full statutory consultation" was required under legislation with the primary being designated a rural school - which there is a Scotland-wide presumption against closing.

From BBC

The government is also introducing, for the first time, a presumption that all prison leavers will be tagged on release as part of intensive supervision.

From BBC

No synopsis of the action is offered in the printed program, and Mr. Millepied’s presumption that his audience is aware of the tragedy’s plot seems reasonable.

From The Wall Street Journal

The presumption that Dubai is a transient mirage, a Hollywood set built on sand that would unravel once the going gets tough, was no doubt shared in Tehran.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• assumption
• likelihood
• premise
• supposition
• suspicion