governing assumptions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "governing assumptions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the foundational beliefs or principles that guide decision-making or reasoning in a particular context. Example: "The governing assumptions of our research must be clearly stated to ensure transparency and validity in our findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

In their governing assumptions, they are the antithesis of universal health care.

The New Yorker

In another political moment, Mr. Obama's attempt to preserve old governing assumptions might be labeled conservative.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

There is now a generation on the Net whose governing assumption is that things should be free.

MIT Technology Review

This religious and rather hand-wavy position, known as Cartesian dualism, remained the governing assumption into the 18th century and the early days of modern brain study.

The Guardian

In suggesting that, Mr. Bush repudiated a governing assumption of American arms control that the ability of each side to annihilate each other created a safer world by making the temptation to use nuclear weapons unthinkable.

The New York Times

The governing assumption has been that the norm-setting role of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) remains unchanged notwithstanding the primacy of the WTO as an Organization with explicit mandate for global IP regulation.

Harvard University

There is still too much of a governing assumption in too many parts of British society, in too many of our institutions, that progress can be achieved on the basis of a limited pool of talent gaining access to a limited pool of opportunities.

The Guardian

The government has been forced into this baleful position because of the collapse of the fundamental governing assumption of New Labour.

The Guardian - Opinion

More precisely, it was the very end, the last moment that that policy mix existed as the official orientation, the status quo, the governing assumption.

Forbes

The parameters governing these assumptions were systematically varied and model-projected survival was compared with empiric 24-month survival from the WIHS.

Plosone

The supply submodel will be realistic in its conclusions to the extent that the entry parameters that govern its assumptions are realistic.

Human Resources for Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "governing assumptions", clearly define the context in which these assumptions operate to avoid ambiguity. Specify whose assumptions they are, and what they govern.

Common error

Avoid applying "governing assumptions" too broadly. Ensure that the assumptions are indeed relevant and specific to the situation you're discussing, and not just vaguely applicable to any situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "governing assumptions" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the foundational principles or beliefs that dictate how something operates or is understood. It's used to specify the underlying basis for reasoning or decision-making, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "governing assumptions" refers to the fundamental principles or beliefs that guide decisions, actions, or theories. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suitability for use in formal, academic, and scientific contexts. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is valuable for establishing the conceptual framework of a discussion, and its alternatives include "underlying principles", "fundamental tenets", and "basic premises". Effective usage requires defining the specific context and scope of the assumptions, while avoiding overgeneralization. Key sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian demonstrate its application in reputable publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

underlying principles

Focuses on the foundational nature of the principles, highlighting their role as a base for further reasoning.

fundamental tenets

Emphasizes the core beliefs or doctrines that are essential to a system or ideology.

basic premises

Highlights the starting points or propositions upon which an argument or theory is based.

core beliefs

Centers on the deeply held convictions that influence one's perspective and actions.

guiding principles

Focuses on the principles that provide direction and influence decision-making.

foundational beliefs

Stresses the essential beliefs that form the groundwork for a particular viewpoint or system.

key presuppositions

Highlights the assumptions that are taken for granted before an argument or investigation begins.

operative assumptions

Focuses on the assumptions that are actively at work or in effect within a given system or context.

axiomatic principles

Emphasizes principles that are self-evident and require no proof.

primary postulates

Highlights the basic statements or propositions that are accepted as true and serve as a foundation for reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "governing assumptions" in a sentence?

You can use "governing assumptions" to describe the fundamental principles or beliefs that guide a process, decision, or theory. For instance, "The "governing assumptions" of this model are based on economic theory."

What are some alternatives to "governing assumptions"?

Alternatives include "underlying principles", "fundamental tenets", or "basic premises", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is "governing assumptions" commonly used?

The phrase is frequently used in academic, scientific, and formal contexts to discuss the theoretical underpinnings and foundational beliefs behind different models, theories, and practices.

Are there any nuances to consider when using "governing assumptions"?

Yes, be mindful of the specific field or discipline you're writing in. The "governing assumptions" in physics might differ significantly from those in sociology, so ensure clarity and specificity.