An assumption is something taken to be true without proof.

The idea

Assumption is countable. Use an assumption that before a clause and assumptions about before a topic.

Examples

  • Our plan rests on the assumption that the bridge will reopen soon.
  • The survey challenged her assumptions about city life.
  • It was an assumption, not a fact supported by evidence.
  • Before hiring anyone, the owner questioned an assumption about experience.
  • Their assumption proved wrong when the shop stayed open late.
  • Do not make assumptions about what your neighbours need; ask them.

Read-aloud uses a synthetic English voice on your device. Quality and availability vary; it does not assess pronunciation.

Watch out

An assumption is not necessarily supported by evidence, and it may turn out to be false.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct word. The report is based on the ___ that costs will fall. (assumption / evidence)

    Show answer or example answer

    assumption

    Assumption names the unproven idea that costs will fall.

  2. Choose the correct word. We should question our assumptions ___ older workers. (about / at)

    Show answer or example answer

    about

    About introduces the people the assumptions concern.

  3. Choose the correct word. The team made two ___ before collecting data. (assumptions / assumption)

    Show answer or example answer

    assumptions

    Assumptions is plural because there are two.

Use it today

Describe an assumption behind a decision and explain how you could test it.