we may assume

USAGE SUMMARY

"we may assume" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you're making a logical deduction or offering an opinion that is based on a given set of facts. For example, "Given the drop in sales figures, we may assume the lack of interest in the product is due to outdated features."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Music, we may assume, began outside.

The New Yorker

And nor, we may assume, will Bridget be".

The Guardian - Books

We may assume the company is still in transition.

The New York Times - Arts

If, we may assume.

Boundary Value Problems

As, we may assume.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

We may assume that on.

Boundary Value Problems

We may assume that as.

Boundary Value Problems

Hence, we may assume that.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

For definiteness, we may assume.

Boundary Value Problems

Furthermore, we may assume a.e.

Boundary Value Problems

Thus, we may assume that.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we may assume" to introduce a simplifying assumption in academic or technical writing, clarifying that a statement is taken as true for the purpose of argument or calculation without proof.

Common error

Avoid presenting "we may assume" as an absolute truth. Always acknowledge the possibility that the assumption might not hold in all cases and consider the potential impact on your conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we may assume" functions as an epistemic marker, indicating a statement is being presented as an assumption rather than a definitive fact. As evidenced by Ludwig, this phrase is often used to introduce a premise that simplifies a complex argument or model.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we may assume" is a versatile phrase used primarily to introduce an assumption or simplification in an argument. Ludwig AI validates that it is grammatically sound and appropriate for formal contexts, especially in scientific and academic writing. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring that the assumption is reasonable and does not undermine your overall argument. Alternatives like "it is reasonable to assume" can be considered for stylistic variation, while caution should be exercised to avoid overstating the certainty of the assumption. It's vital to consider the context and purpose when deploying this phrase, aligning with its intended function as an epistemic marker.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can presume

This alternative suggests a slightly stronger level of confidence in the assumption than the original phrase.

it is reasonable to assume

This alternative emphasizes the logical basis for making the assumption.

it is safe to say

This alternative implies a degree of caution and minimal risk in making the assumption.

we can infer

This alternative suggests that the assumption is based on specific evidence or logical deduction.

let us suppose

This alternative is more formal and often used when introducing a hypothetical scenario.

it is understood that

This alternative indicates that the assumption is generally accepted or implied.

we take it for granted

This alternative suggests that the assumption is so basic or obvious that it doesn't require further justification.

we hypothesize

This alternative is commonly used in scientific contexts to introduce a testable assumption.

we postulate

This alternative is a formal way to introduce a fundamental assumption or principle.

it seems likely

This alternative expresses a probabilistic judgment rather than a firm assumption.

FAQs

How can I use "we may assume" in a research paper?

In a research paper, "we may assume" is used to introduce a simplification or a working hypothesis. For example, "For the sake of this model, "we may assume" that air resistance is negligible."

What are some alternatives to "we may assume" in formal writing?

In formal writing, you can use phrases like "it is reasonable to assume", "it is safe to say", or "let us suppose" as alternatives to "we may assume".

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

It's inappropriate to use "we may assume" when the assumption is clearly false or contradicts established facts. Always ensure that the assumption is justifiable and doesn't undermine the validity of your argument.

What's the difference between "we may assume" and "we can conclude"?

"We may assume" introduces a statement taken to be true without proof, usually to simplify a problem or argument. "We can conclude", on the other hand, indicates a statement that follows logically from evidence or premises presented.