presumption

Everyday

1. Something you believe is true without proof: «the presumption that he was at home». tree →
2. (law) An idea a court treats as true until proved otherwise: «the presumption of innocence». tree →
3. Rude, too-confident behaviour, doing something you have no right to do: «What presumption, to sit in the head's chair!» tree →

In the lessons

In maths and science, presumptions must be checked; in law «innocent until proven guilty» is the presumption of innocence. In stories it can describe a cheeky or arrogant character. Phrases: «the presumption of innocence», «on the presumption that», «a fair presumption».

Examples

• Our plan was based on the presumption that it would not rain. tree →
• In court there is a presumption of innocence. tree →
• The presumption that all spiders are dangerous is wrong. tree →
• She acted on the presumption that her friend had the tickets. tree →
• His presumption in reading my diary made me cross. tree →
• That was a reasonable presumption, but it turned out false. tree →
• Scientists test presumptions with experiments. tree →
• ‘Oh!’ he implored, ‘pardon my presumption; necessity alone drove me to the deed. tree →

Note

Countable for a belief (presumptions); uncountable for rude boldness. Verb: presume; adjective: presumptuous (too bold), presumable. Close to «assumption»; a presumption is usually a little stronger, based on some reason.