begin to assume

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "begin to assume" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating the start of a process where someone starts to take on a belief or responsibility. Example: "As the project progressed, the team began to assume more responsibility for their tasks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The interval drinks begin to assume a central role.

The Guardian

These children begin to assume that this merit-tangled love is the natural order of the universe.

The New York Times

It is also during the elementary school years that children begin to assume more responsibility for their own care.

The New York Times

Not until the 18th century, following the general tendency toward secularization, did the state begin to assume responsibility for supporting the schools.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When we present someone as something "other" than our conservative view, we begin to assume their failure to be like the majority perhaps contributed to their death.

The Guardian - Opinion

Other federal officials have suggested that the states begin to assume more of the financial burden associated with running a rail system.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Each out began to assume added significance.

The New York Times - Sports

The Ruthian waistline began to assume alarming proportions.

The New York Times

"Hillary Clinton is beginning to assume a commanding position.

The New York Times

On the way, my condition began to assume threatening forms.

The Guardian

Secondary and higher education began to assume a public character.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "begin to assume" to describe the initial phase of taking on a new role, responsibility, or characteristic. It is particularly effective when emphasizing a gradual transition.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid overusing "begin to assume" in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more precise verbs like "adopt", "embrace", or "undertake" for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "begin to assume" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of a process or the initial stage of adopting a role, responsibility, or characteristic. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "begin to assume" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the initial stage of adopting a role, responsibility, or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its frequency is classified as "common", particularly in contexts such as News & Media and Science. While generally neutral, it maintains a level of professional appropriateness. When writing, it's best to use "begin to assume" to emphasize a gradual transition. However, consider using more precise verbs in highly formal or academic contexts. Alternatives such as "start to take on" or "commence to believe" can offer subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start to presume

Emphasizes an initial inclination to believe something without proof; slightly more informal.

start to take on

Highlights the initiation of accepting responsibilities or characteristics; more action-oriented.

commence to believe

Focuses on the inception of a belief or conviction; more formal.

begin to adopt

Highlights the initial act of embracing or accepting something new; emphasizes choice.

start to imagine

Implies the beginning of forming a mental image or concept; emphasizes visualization.

begin to expect

Highlights the initial anticipation of something; emphasizes anticipation.

start to embody

Focuses on the beginning of representing or personifying something; more figurative.

begin to develop

Focuses on the initial stages of growth or evolution; emphasizes progress.

start to understand

Implies the commencement of grasping or comprehending something; emphasizes cognition.

become to expect

Highlights a gradual shift towards anticipation; less common usage.

FAQs

How can I use "begin to assume" in a sentence?

You can use "begin to assume" to describe the start of taking on a role or responsibility. For example, "As the project progressed, the team members "began to assume" more leadership roles".

What are some alternatives to "begin to assume"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "start to take on", "commence to believe", or "begin to expect", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "begin assuming" or "begin to assume"?

"Begin to assume" is generally preferred in formal writing as it clearly indicates the start of a process. "Begin assuming" may be used, but can sound slightly less formal or precise. The most suitable option depends on context.

What's the difference between "begin to assume" and "start to assume"?

The difference is minimal. Both phrases are virtually interchangeable, with "begin to assume" being slightly more formal than "start to assume".