i supposed that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I supposed that" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a thought or belief that the speaker had in the past. Example: "I supposed that she would be at the meeting, but she never showed up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

This was the sort of book, I supposed, that would build its meanings sentence by sentence, pausing to gather itself together again after every period.

The New York Times - Books

Glumly, I supposed that instead of looking like a cancer patient, I would resemble a corpse that had undergone a makeover by a cosmetologist undertaker.

The New York Times

"I supposed that puts us at a disadvantage," said Marlene Jackson, visiting from England, outside the 47th Street Theater, where the show is playing.

The New York Times

Because I was unaware of the term "aromantic" at the time, I supposed that was what romantic attraction was.

Huffington Post

(I always managed to brush my teeth and take off my makeup, even though I would have no recollection of this ritual the following morning. I supposed that was the dutiful beauty editor in me).

Huffington Post

I supposed that's my specific obsession.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

I suppose that could change," he said.

Independent

"I suppose that's what he wanted".

The New Yorker

I suppose that's their job.

The Economist

I suppose that's my fantasy world.

The New Yorker

I suppose that will change soon.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I supposed that" to introduce a past assumption or belief, especially when providing context or explaining a previous action or decision.

Common error

While grammatically correct, relying too heavily on "I supposed that" can make writing sound less confident. In formal contexts, consider using stronger verbs or rephrasing to convey certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I supposed that" functions as a sentence opener introducing a subordinate clause. It indicates a retrospective viewpoint where the speaker reflects on a prior assumption or belief. Ludwig AI confirms that it is commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I supposed that" is a grammatically sound and valid way to introduce a past assumption or belief. As shown by Ludwig, it's often used to provide context or explain a prior action. The frequency is uncommon, mainly found in news media, reflecting its use in reporting past events and the speaker's mindset. While Ludwig AI confirms it is correct, it's worth noting that overly relying on the phrase may sound less assertive, especially in professional writing. Alternatives include using stronger verbs or restructuring the sentence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I assumed that

Implies a belief taken for granted without necessarily having concrete evidence.

I presumed that

Suggests a belief based on probability or reasonable grounds, though not certain.

I had thought that

Indicates a past belief, often implying that the belief may no longer be held or was incorrect.

I believed that

Directly states a past belief, with a strong sense of conviction at the time.

I imagined that

Suggests a belief formed in one's mind, often based on incomplete information or fantasy.

I gathered that

Indicates an inference or conclusion drawn from available information.

I inferred that

Similar to 'I gathered that', but may involve a more formal or logical deduction.

I concluded that

States a final judgment or decision reached after some consideration.

I had the impression that

Indicates a feeling or vague belief about something.

I understood that

Suggests that the information was received and processed, leading to a particular belief.

FAQs

How can I use "I supposed that" in a sentence?

You can use "I supposed that" to introduce a past belief or assumption. For example, "I supposed that she would be here, but she didn't arrive".

What are some alternatives to "I supposed that"?

Some alternatives include "I assumed that", "I presumed that", or "I believed that". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of certainty you wish to convey.

Is "I supposed that" formal or informal?

"I supposed that" is generally considered neutral in formality. However, in very formal writing, you might opt for a more assertive phrasing.

Is it correct to say "I suppose that" instead of "I supposed that"?

Yes, "I suppose that" is the present tense form and is also correct, but it indicates a current assumption or belief, whereas "I supposed that" refers to a past belief.