gratuitous assumptions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gratuitous assumptions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe assumptions that are made without any good reason or evidence. For example, "He gave us a list of gratuitous assumptions that had no basis in reality."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Impressionistic method has given way to systematic inquiry from which gratuitous assumptions are, if possible, excluded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mellor argues that the existence of essences in essentialist accounts of natural kinds is simply a gratuitous assumption.

SEP

2. This assumption is not gratuitous.

SEP

Gratuitous, too.

The New York Times

But the assumption that, if two articles are priced in the same currency, they must contain quantities of a common substance is gratuitous.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Or gratuitous?

The Guardian

Stark, gratuitous.

The Guardian

Note that gratuitous "lamely".

The New York Times - Books

"They are not gratuitous.

Independent

It's just gratuitous.

Independent

Literature is necessarily gratuitous.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When critiquing arguments, specifically identify why the "gratuitous assumptions" are unnecessary or unsupported by evidence. This strengthens your counter-argument and demonstrates thorough analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "gratuitous assumptions" to simply express disagreement. Ensure the assumptions truly lack logical support rather than merely conflicting with your opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gratuitous assumptions" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. The adjective "gratuitous" describes the nature of the "assumptions", indicating they are unwarranted or lacking justification. As Ludwig AI explains, this refers to assumptions made without good reason or evidence.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gratuitous assumptions" describes claims made without sufficient justification or necessity. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is grammatically correct and serves to critique arguments by highlighting their reliance on unsupported assertions. The phrase, although rare, is predominantly found in encyclopedias, news media, and science contexts, suggesting a formal to neutral register. When using or encountering this phrase, ensure that the critique is specific and based on a genuine lack of evidence, avoiding its overuse in subjective disagreements. Alternatives like "unsubstantiated assumptions" or "unnecessary assumptions" may offer greater precision depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsubstantiated assumptions

Emphasizes the lack of evidence or support for the assumptions.

unfounded assumptions

Highlights the absence of a solid basis or foundation for the assumptions.

unjustified assumptions

Focuses on the lack of a valid reason or excuse for making the assumptions.

unwarranted assumptions

Suggests that the assumptions are not deserved or justified by the situation.

baseless assumptions

Indicates that the assumptions are without any factual basis.

groundless assumptions

Similar to baseless, emphasizing the lack of a firm foundation.

unnecessary assumptions

Highlights that the assumptions are not required or essential.

arbitrary assumptions

Suggests that the assumptions are based on random choice or personal whim.

unreasonable assumptions

Implies that the assumptions are not logical or sensible.

free assumptions

Highlights that the assumptions are without a cost or reason.

FAQs

How can I identify "gratuitous assumptions" in an argument?

Look for claims that are presented as fact but lack supporting evidence or logical necessity. Ask yourself if the argument would still hold without that particular assumption.

What's the difference between "gratuitous assumptions" and "unjustified assumptions"?

While both phrases describe assumptions lacking support, "gratuitous assumptions" emphasizes the unnecessary nature of the assumption, whereas "unjustified assumptions" simply highlights the lack of justification.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "gratuitous assumptions"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "unsubstantiated assumptions", "unfounded assumptions", or "unnecessary assumptions".

Is it always negative to make a "gratuitous assumption"?

Yes, the term "gratuitous" carries a negative connotation, implying that the assumption is unwarranted and adds nothing of value to the argument or discussion.