a prior assumption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a prior assumption" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an assumption that is made before any evidence or other considerations have been taken into account. For example: "Based on a prior assumption, we assumed that the project would be completed in two weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

In Bayesian language, something like a prior assumption.

The Guardian

A prior assumption of zero probability can never be changed.

The Guardian

This direct treatment does not involve a prior assumption regarding the spatial solutions.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

If you have a prior assumption that modern life is rubbish and technology is intrinsically evil, then you will place a high prior probability on carbon dioxide emissions dooming us all.

The Guardian

The results of Bayesian calibration (BCal) of dates with a prior assumption of chronological ordering were compared with a Bayesian wiggle-match approach (Bpeat) which assumes constant linear accumulation over sections of the peat profile.

Quaternary Geochronology

Nick Salvatore, a Cornell University professor who has studied such early labor leaders as Eugene V. Debs and Samuel Gompers, said some new historians bring a "prior assumption" to their work that presents a militant view of class bearing almost no relationship to workers he has observed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

We did not use any prior assumption on the age of the root.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

However, this improving estimation costs a stronger prior assumption.

Boundary Value Problems

A new and more fruitful method is to survey the whole genome without any prior assumptions, a strategy made possible by new gene chips and a database of human genetic variation known as the hapmap.

The New York Times - Health

The eXtended Finite Element Method (XFEM) allows modelling of the onset and propagation of multiple cracks in a material without prior assumption on their positions.

Composite Structures

If one were to select a more conservative prior assumption of 1 in 5×105 (implying approximately 5 genuinely associated SNPs) then the posterior probability for rs8014194 being genuinely associated with total cholesterol response decreases to approximately 50%.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a prior assumption", clearly state the assumption to ensure your audience understands the basis of your reasoning. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid treating "a prior assumption" as an unchallengeable truth. Always seek evidence to support or refute the assumption to maintain credibility and avoid flawed conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a prior assumption" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a belief or premise held before an investigation or analysis. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

63%

News & Media

25%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a prior assumption" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a belief or premise held before investigation or analysis. As Ludwig AI points out, it’s a valid and usable phrase in written English. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, its function is to establish a foundational understanding. When employing this phrase, ensure you clearly articulate the specific assumption to avoid ambiguity. Be cautious about treating it as an unchallengeable truth and validate it whenever possible. Alternatives include "a preliminary assumption" and "a presupposition", each carrying slightly different nuances. Remember that effectively using "a prior assumption" involves clear communication and critical evaluation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary assumption

This alternative suggests the assumption is made at the beginning or before detailed analysis.

a presupposition

This term implies an assumption that is taken for granted as a basis for reasoning or belief.

a preconceived notion

This emphasizes that the assumption is formed before having full knowledge or experience.

an initial hypothesis

This alternative presents the assumption as a starting point for investigation.

a starting premise

This phrase highlights the assumption's role as a foundational element in an argument or theory.

a baseline belief

This focuses on the assumption as a standard or reference point for comparison.

a foundational assumption

This emphasizes the assumption's importance in providing a base for further development.

a preliminary hypothesis

This term frames the assumption as a tentative explanation that requires further testing.

an antecedent assumption

This alternative highlights that the assumption precedes other considerations or actions.

a pre-existing belief

This emphasizes that the assumption was present before the current context or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a prior assumption" in a sentence?

"A prior assumption" can be used to indicate a belief or premise held before an investigation or analysis begins. For example, "Based on "a prior assumption", we proceeded with the experiment expecting certain results."

What are some alternatives to using "a prior assumption"?

You can use alternatives like "a preliminary assumption", "a presupposition", or "a preconceived notion", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a prior assumption" in academic writing?

It's appropriate when you're acknowledging a pre-existing belief or premise that informs your research or analysis. Be sure to clearly state and justify the assumption to maintain transparency and rigor.

What's the difference between ""a prior assumption"" and "a hypothesis"?

"A prior assumption" is a belief or premise held before investigation, while a hypothesis is a testable statement that can be proven or disproven through experimentation or analysis. A hypothesis is typically more specific and focused than a general prior assumption.