assumes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "assumes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something is taken for granted or accepted as true without proof. Example: "The theory assumes that all variables remain constant throughout the experiment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Because those towns are in the south everyone assumes they're rich," he says.

The Guardian - Music

But the panic over children's technology use wrongly assumes that all parents before the internet or Apple were somehow spending hours a day making sure their kids were properly stimulated.

The Guardian - Opinion

68 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 8th, [phone], le68guymartin.com Open daily 10am-11.30am for breakfast Tipping its hat at the great American all-day breakfast, this snug little place in the trendy 10th assumes you'll have a nice lie-in: it doesn't open until 10am.

The Guardian - Travel

But that reading assumes that the Australians knew they were breaking the rules, which seems not to have been the case.

The Guardian - Sport

Many comedians drink to maintain the easy confidence that everyone assumes comes naturally.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Because I'm in the media quite a lot now, everyone assumes that everything is fine.

The Guardian

It assumes that anyone with a vast pile of money must know best, about anything.

The Guardian - Opinion

The bottom line in all this is that the Germany government assumes that the British prime minister also really wants to keep Britain in the EU.

The Guardian

His critics will say: He is an arrogant public schoolboy who assumes he was born to have a second term in Downing Street.

The Guardian

Instead of seizing the chance for a new beginning, the ascending archbishop assumes all his church's mysterious sexual hang-ups.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is no evidence that the majority are as dull and backward as the BBC assumes them to be.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "assumes", ensure that the assumption is either widely accepted or explicitly stated for clarity. This helps avoid misunderstandings and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "assumes" when presenting critical information without providing supporting evidence. Always back up key assumptions with data or logical reasoning to enhance credibility.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "assumes" is as a third-person singular present tense verb. It indicates that someone or something is taking something for granted or making a supposition, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "assumes" is a grammatically correct and very common verb used to indicate taking something for granted. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media, but also in business and scientific contexts. When using "assumes", it's important to be aware of the potential for unsubstantiated claims and to ensure assumptions are either widely accepted or explicitly stated. Consider using alternatives like "presumes", "takes for granted", or "infers" to fine-tune your message. Remember that clear communication and a foundation of evidence are key to effective writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

presumes

Assumes something is the case on the basis of probability or likelihood. It carries a slightly more formal tone than "assumes".

takes for granted

Indicates that something is accepted as true or certain without any proof or questioning. Emphasizes the lack of critical examination.

presupposes

Implies a prior condition or belief that is necessary for something else to be true or valid. It indicates a deeper level of underlying assumptions.

infers

Draws a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning. It implies a logical process of deduction.

posits

Presents something as a fact or basis for reasoning. Is more formal and often used in academic or theoretical contexts.

deduces

Arrives at a conclusion by reasoning from general principles. Implies a more rigorous and logical process than inferring.

hypothesizes

Proposes a tentative explanation or assumption as a basis for further investigation or experiment. It implies a degree of uncertainty and a need for testing.

surmises

Supposes that something is true without having evidence to confirm it. Implies a weaker level of confidence than assuming.

conjectures

Forms an opinion or supposition about something based on incomplete information or evidence. Suggests a high degree of speculation.

speculates

Forms a theory or conjecture about a subject without firm evidence. It suggests a tentative and exploratory approach.

FAQs

How can I use "assumes" in a sentence?

Use "assumes" to indicate something taken for granted or accepted as true without proof. For example, "The study "assumes that" all participants answered honestly".

What's the difference between "assumes" and "presumes"?

"Assumes" suggests taking something for granted, while "presumes" implies a belief based on probability or likelihood. "He assumes they are rich" versus "He presumes they will arrive on time".

What are some alternatives to using "assumes"?

You can use alternatives like "presupposes", "takes for granted", or "infers" depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use "assumes"?

It's inappropriate to use "assumes" when you need to present a well-supported argument without taking anything for granted. In such cases, provide evidence instead of making assumptions.