underlying assumptions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "underlying assumptions" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the basic beliefs or principles that form the foundation of an argument, theory, or analysis. Example: "Before we proceed with the project, we need to clarify the underlying assumptions that guide our approach."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The underlying assumptions upon which Trident rests no longer ring true.

The Guardian - Opinion

And several underlying assumptions of that middle projection tend to exaggerate the potential deficit.

The New York Times - Magazine

This unit frequently identifies and discusses underlying assumptions that might affect key decisions.

Harvard Business Review

The strategy team's job is to provide the relevant information, track underlying assumptions and ensure progress.

Forbes

Robustness and underlying assumptions will be investigated.

BMC Geriatrics

Standard QALY calculations involve rather strong underlying assumptions [ 20].

Cost Effectiveness and Resource Allocation

There are two important underlying assumptions in our analysis.

Bioinformatics

Regression underlying assumptions were visually inspected with residual plots.

Fibrogenesis and Tissue Repair

It all depends on the underlying assumptions.

The Economist

What are the underlying assumptions?

Harvard University

Then we discussed his underlying assumptions.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "underlying assumptions", be specific about which assumptions you are referring to. Clarity helps avoid misinterpretations and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting arguments as universally true without acknowledging the "underlying assumptions" on which they are based. Recognizing these assumptions adds nuance and credibility to your reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "underlying assumptions" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to the fundamental, often unstated, beliefs or conditions that support a particular argument, theory, or model. As Ludwig AI shows, it is frequently used in discussions across various domains to highlight the foundational premises that shape conclusions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

28%

News & Media

48%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "underlying assumptions" is a very common noun phrase used to denote the fundamental beliefs or conditions that support an argument or system. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various domains, including Science, News & Media, Academia and Formal & Business contexts. When using "underlying assumptions", it is crucial to be specific and acknowledge them to enhance clarity and credibility. Questioning these assumptions is equally important for critical thinking. Related phrases include "implicit assumptions" and "fundamental assumptions", which offer similar meanings with slight nuances. By understanding and articulating the "underlying assumptions", writers and speakers can foster deeper understanding and more rigorous analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implicit assumptions

Focuses on the unspoken or implied nature of the assumptions.

fundamental assumptions

Emphasizes the basic and essential nature of the assumptions.

basic presuppositions

Highlights the idea of something being taken for granted beforehand.

core beliefs

Shifts the focus to the belief system at the heart of an idea.

foundational principles

Emphasizes the role of these assumptions as the base upon which something is built.

hidden premises

Focuses on the assumptions that are not readily apparent.

unstated conditions

Highlights that the assumptions are not explicitly mentioned.

tacit understandings

Emphasizes a shared, unspoken agreement on the assumptions.

inherent biases

Focuses on assumptions that introduce a systematic slant or prejudice.

root presumptions

Underscores the fundamental and foundational nature of the assumptions in question.

FAQs

How can I identify the "underlying assumptions" in an argument?

Look for statements that are taken for granted without explicit proof. Consider what must be true for the argument to hold, and identify any unstated beliefs or values that support it.

What's the difference between "underlying assumptions" and explicit claims?

"Underlying assumptions" are implicit beliefs or conditions that support an argument, while explicit claims are directly stated and defended. Assumptions operate in the background, influencing the argument without being openly asserted.

Why is it important to question the "underlying assumptions"?

Questioning "underlying assumptions" can reveal biases, weaknesses, or alternative perspectives that might otherwise be overlooked. It promotes critical thinking and a more nuanced understanding of complex issues.

Are "fundamental assumptions" the same as "underlying assumptions"?

While similar, "fundamental assumptions" often refer to the most basic and essential beliefs upon which an entire system of thought is built. "Underlying assumptions" can be more specific to a particular argument or situation, though they still provide essential support.