by assuming that

USAGE SUMMARY

"by assuming that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to introduce a hypothesis or an idea that you are proposing based on a certain assumption. For example: "By assuming that the computer simulation is accurate, we can begin to analyze the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Paleontologists typically reconstruct past behavior by assuming that function follows form.

University of California, Berkeley

By assuming that lighting is the resultant of constituent properties and surfaces, this approach neglects the contingency of perception.

Yale University

Five members of the Supreme Court have defied logic by assuming that corporations are people.

University of California, Berkeley

Sah began her research by assuming that we are different people at different hours.

The New Yorker

Many of these issues are often worsened by assuming that they are part of normal aging.

The New York Times

We began the process by assuming that each store represented a cluster.

Harvard Business Review

Or they could adjust the model by assuming that their behavior will be suboptimal.

Harvard Business Review

Our hallowed intelligence agencies have made mistake after mistake by assuming that these machines are incontrovertible.

MIT Technology Review

Astronomers later explained this variability by assuming that Algol is a binary star system.

MIT Technology Review

This is done mainly by assuming that foliage elements occur in a spatially random manner.

Agricultural and Forest Meteorology

Most often, active filters are designed by assuming that the network frequency is time-invariant.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by assuming that", clearly state the assumption being made to avoid ambiguity. This helps ensure your audience understands the basis of your argument or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "by assuming that" without providing a rationale for the assumption. An unsupported assumption can weaken your argument and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by assuming that" functions as a prepositional phrase introducing a subordinate clause. It specifies the condition or basis upon which a subsequent statement or conclusion is predicated. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in setting up hypotheses or premises.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by assuming that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a foundational assumption upon which a subsequent claim or analysis rests. Ludwig's analysis confirms it's grammatically sound and widely accepted, appearing frequently in science, news, and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's crucial to clearly articulate the assumption and, if possible, provide supporting rationale. Alternatives like ""assuming that"" or ""given that"" can be used depending on the desired tone and context. Remember, a well-supported assumption strengthens your argument, while an unsubstantiated one can weaken it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assuming that

A shorter and more direct way to express the same idea, omitting the preposition "by".

on the assumption that

Replaces "by assuming that" with a more formal prepositional phrase, emphasizing the assumption as the foundation.

presuming that

Similar to "assuming that" but can imply a lack of concrete evidence.

supposing that

Introduces a hypothetical condition or scenario.

given that

Presents the assumption as a known or established fact.

under the premise that

Highlights the initial statement or idea as a basis for reasoning.

hypothesizing that

Indicates a more formal and scientific approach to making an assumption.

with the understanding that

Emphasizes a mutual agreement or condition rather than a simple assumption.

positing that

Suggests putting forward an idea as a basis for argument or discussion.

taking for granted that

Implies that the assumption is accepted without question or proof.

FAQs

How can I use "by assuming that" in a sentence?

You can use "by assuming that" to introduce a condition or premise upon which your argument or analysis is based. For example, "By assuming that the data is accurate, we can proceed with the analysis".

What are some alternatives to "by assuming that"?

Alternatives include "assuming that", "on the assumption that", or "given that", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "by assuming that" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "by assuming that" when you need to clearly state the foundational assumption behind a claim, analysis, or argument. Be sure the assumption is reasonable and, if possible, supported by evidence.

Is there a difference between "by assuming that" and "presuming that"?

While similar, "by assuming that" generally implies a conscious and deliberate choice to base reasoning on a specific assumption. "Presuming that" can suggest a weaker level of certainty or a lack of concrete evidence.