instead of assuming

USAGE SUMMARY

"instead of assuming" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You would use it to express the idea of choosing to do something different than what was initially considered or expected. For example: "Instead of assuming the project would take three months to complete, we decided to focus our efforts and finish it in two."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But instead of assuming a fetal position, Democrats might consider "..

The New York Times

Instead of assuming a corporate globalized everything, we can further ecologically sound local production and exchange.

The New York Times

He always made his actors think afresh about their characters instead of assuming ready-made characterizations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Why not find out if a wheelchair athlete can complete your course, instead of assuming they can't.

The Guardian - Opinion

Plus, the confidential questionnaires show what the real majorities in the room are — instead of assuming that the angriest and most theatrical speakers represent anyone other than themselves.

The New York Times

But now, instead of assuming that a transplant is inevitable, doctors have begun to look for signs that the heart is healing.

The New York Times - Science

Instead of assuming that everywhere can be exploited except those areas (generally tiny ones) designated as marine reserves, the assumption should be that everywhere is protected.

The Guardian

When the impacts occurred, they said, some of the cavities formed followed the straight lines of the underground fractures instead of assuming a traditionally rounded shape.

The New York Times - Science

They did not succeed but the fact that they were asked and tried, instead of assuming their usual negative attitude, is significant.

The New Yorker

Mr. Kramer recommends manually putting a laptop in "sleep" or "hibernate" mode before closing the lid, instead of assuming that the hard drive will shut down automatically.

The New York Times - Tech

For convenience, we will write instead of assuming that, if.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "instead of assuming" to encourage critical thinking and to prompt a re-evaluation of established beliefs or practices.

Common error

Avoid using "instead of assuming" when there is no clear or implied assumption being challenged. Ensure that the context indicates an existing belief or expectation that your statement is meant to replace.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "instead of assuming" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces an alternative to a given assumption. It serves to suggest a different perspective, method, or action. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

40%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "instead of assuming" is a versatile phrase used to introduce an alternative to an assumption. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various domains, including News & Media and Science. When using this phrase, ensure that you clearly state the alternative approach you are proposing. Ludwig's examples show that it's crucial to avoid using "instead of assuming" in contexts where no prior assumption exists, as this can lead to confusion. Overall, it's a valuable tool for encouraging critical thinking and presenting more considered perspectives. Some alternatives are "rather than presume" or "in lieu of supposing".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rather than presume

This alternative replaces "assuming" with "presume", implying a similar shift away from taking something for granted.

in lieu of supposing

This phrase uses "supposing" instead of "assuming", offering a more formal tone.

as opposed to thinking

This alternative replaces "assuming" with "thinking", broadening the scope to any form of thought, not just assumptions.

instead of postulating

Using "postulating" offers a more academic or theoretical alternative to "assuming".

rather than speculate

This alternative suggests replacing an assumption with speculation, implying a more active consideration of possibilities.

in place of taking for granted

This is a longer, more explicit way to express the idea of not making assumptions.

instead of concluding prematurely

This alternative focuses on the aspect of assumptions being premature conclusions.

instead of readily believing

This alternative highlights the aspect of accepting something without questioning.

rather than jumping to conclusions

This phrase offers a more idiomatic way to describe avoiding assumptions.

instead of making a premature judgment

This alternative emphasizes the judgmental aspect of assumptions.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "instead of assuming" in a formal context?

In formal writing, you could use phrases such as "rather than presume", "in lieu of supposing", or "as opposed to thinking" to maintain a professional tone.

When is it appropriate to use "instead of assuming"?

Use "instead of assuming" when you want to suggest an alternative action or thought process in place of making an assumption. It is useful for encouraging critical thinking or offering a more considered approach.

What is a common mistake to avoid when using "instead of assuming"?

A common mistake is using "instead of assuming" when there is no prior assumption being challenged. Ensure that the context indicates an existing belief or expectation that your statement is meant to replace.

What are some synonyms for "instead of assuming"?

Some synonyms include "rather than speculate", "in place of taking for granted", and "rather than jumping to conclusions". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.