Presume vs. Assume
Words can vary in meaning based on small differences in their construction. A prefix added to the beginning of the same root can cause differences in the meaning of the two words. Presume and assume are two words that are very similar but mean slightly different things.
Presume is a verb that means to suppose something to be true based on past occurrences or probability. When you presume you are making an educated guess based on information that you already have.
1. Because it was covered in dust and cobwebs, I presumed that grandmother had not used to sewing machine in quite some time.
2. We presumed that Marco would win the race based on the fact that he has already won all of the races this season.
3. I presume you would like to order your usual, Miss Katie? Chicken nuggets and fries?
Assume is a verb that also means to suppose something to be true, but it is based on no evidence or knowledge. When you assume, you are not making an educated guess-you are just making a guess.
1. I assume you are angry because you got to school late.
2. The teacher just assumed we did not do our homework because we were lazy.
3. When he didn't eat his dinner, Taylor's mom assumed he was not hungry.
In summary, presume and assume are both used when you are supposing something to be true, but when you presume, you have some basis for your beliefs. When you assume, you have no basis for the opinion.
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