presume
verb (used with object)
to take for granted, assume, or suppose.
were presuming
-
past progressiveof presume.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He added that journalists were "presuming I had something I didn't have", but said "I had something far more serious."
From BBC ● Feb. 6, 2026
"It would look as though I were presuming on a t-trifling service rendered, and--oh, I can't say it; I want to, but I can't."
From The Green Mouse by Robert W. (Robert William) Chambers
They were somewhat cleaner, a trifle better clad, and somewhat changed in their general aspect, for here they were presuming themselves to be “poor but honest” working people, like their neighbors.
From Dangerous Ground or, The Rival Detectives by Lawrence L. Lynch
"I must say that as a boy you were presuming enough."
From Torchy, Private Sec. by F. Foster Lincoln
They were presuming to whisper in corners, like their betters.
From Man and Wife by Wilkie Collins
