if we assume

USAGE SUMMARY

"if we assume" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is often used to acknowledge something that is unconfirmed or uncertain, and can be used at the beginning of a sentence. For example: "If we assume the meeting is still scheduled for 2pm, we should plan on arriving early."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If we assume the underwater [farm] is structurally sound, I think it would be fantastic.

The Guardian

Even if we assume a catastrophic situation, ITV still looks cheap".

The Guardian - Business

Only if we assume that protecting shareholder value is a higher priority.

The New York Times

What is the relationship between F_ij and F_ji if we assume uniform light reflection?

Princeton University

If we assume Clinton's current polling margin and strong coattails, it predicts 212 Democratic seats.

The Washington Post

So if we assume the paper's report is accurate, can the Trumps now be indicted?

The Guardian - Opinion

However, "even if we assume there's been a post-mortem change, it's not going from a negligible concentration to 18".

The New York Times

But our revulsion – if we assume we are revolted – is at least partly down to social conditioning".

The Guardian - Film

So, if we assume that both of them meant what they said, what exactly is going on?

The Guardian - Books

If we assume 21 working days in a month, this translates to a loss of 42 working hours.

The Guardian - Business

"We can find angle from the sun path to the ground if we assume the pole is vertical".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "if we assume" to introduce a hypothesis or a condition that needs to be explored, making it clear that what follows depends on the validity of that assumption.

Common error

Avoid using "if we assume" without providing any justification or context for the assumption. Always explain why the assumption is reasonable or necessary for your analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if we assume" functions as a conditional clause introducer. It sets up a hypothetical scenario or premise, upon which the following statement or argument depends. As Ludwig AI highlights, it acknowledges something unconfirmed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "if we assume" is a versatile phrase used to introduce hypothetical conditions or premises in a variety of contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable, particularly in academic, scientific, and news-related writing. To ensure clarity, always clearly state the assumption and its relevance. While common, avoid unsubstantiated assumptions; justify the assumption for a stronger argument. This review has been compiled using a variety of authoritative sources, to ensure accuracy and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assuming that

Changes the phrasing to a gerund, implying a similar hypothetical condition.

suppose that

Replaces "assume" with "suppose", offering a slightly more tentative tone.

on the assumption that

Transforms the phrase into a prepositional phrase, emphasizing the basis of a conclusion.

given that we presume

Substitutes "assume" with "presume", adding a nuance of taking something for granted.

in the event that we posit

Replaces "assume" with "posit", introducing a more formal and academic tone.

if it is granted that

Frames the assumption as something being conceded or accepted.

let's say that

Offers a more casual and conversational way to introduce an assumption.

for the sake of argument

Explicitly indicates that the assumption is being made for the purpose of discussion.

under the premise that

Highlights the foundational nature of the assumption as a starting point.

assuming as a basis

Highlights the assumption to be a base for reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "if we assume" in a sentence?

Use "if we assume" to introduce a condition or hypothesis upon which your subsequent statement depends. For example, "If we assume a constant growth rate, we can project future earnings."

What phrases are similar to "if we assume"?

You can use alternatives such as "assuming that", "suppose that", or "on the assumption that" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to use "if we assume" or "assuming that"?

Both "if we assume" and "assuming that" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on the specific context and desired tone. "If we assume" might sound slightly more formal.

When is it inappropriate to use "if we assume"?

Avoid using "if we assume" when the assumption is already known to be false or when it is completely irrelevant to the discussion. Make sure the assumption has a reasonable basis or purpose.