What is assume? Pronunciation and usage in English

assume means . Learn how to pronounce and use assume through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of assume

assumeverb

/əˈsjuːm/
Definition & pronunciation of assume

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "assume" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /əˈzjuːm/ (This is the IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet representation)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. əˈzjuːm (The first syllable)

    • ə (the first sound) - This is a schwa sound - a very short, relaxed "uh" sound, like in the word "about." It's almost silent, but present.
    • ˈzjuː (the second syllable) - This is pronounced like the word "zoo" but with a slightly longer "oo" sound, like in "food." Think of a rounded "oo" sound.
    • m - A standard "m" sound.

  2. Complete Word: Putting it together, it sounds like: uh-ZYOO-m

Here's how it might sound (using approximations):

  • "uh-ZOO-m" - This is the closest you'll get without audio. The emphasis is on the second syllable.

Common Mistakes & Tips:

  • Don't say "ass-ume." Many beginners incorrectly pronounce it as “ass-ume,” which is a common mistake.
  • The schwa sound is key. Really listen to how the first syllable is pronounced – it’s very short and relaxed.
  • Listen to native speakers. The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:
    • Google: Search for "how to pronounce assume" on Google and listen to the audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/assume/ – This website allows you to hear the word pronounced by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for "pronounce assume" on YouTube.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you another example word that uses a similar sound?

Usage and examples with the word assume in English

Let's break down how to use the word "assume" in English. It's a versatile word with slightly different shades of meaning, so it's important to understand how to apply it correctly.

1. Core Meaning: To Take Something for Granted as True Without Proof

This is the most common use of "assume." It means to accept something as true, often without evidence or investigation. It implies a lack of verification.

  • Example: “I assume he’s coming to the party because he said he would.” (You're taking his verbal promise as fact, but you haven't confirmed it.)
  • Example: “Don't assume that everyone agrees with you.” (You're not checking if they actually do.)
  • Example: "I assumed she was tired, but she’s actually full of energy." (You made a guess based on something – her fatigue – and didn’t confirm.)

2. "Assume" as a Verb – Taking on Responsibility/Duty

"Assume" can also mean to take on a responsibility or role, typically one that someone else is supposed to handle. This usage is often found in formal contexts.

  • Example: “The new manager assumed responsibility for the project.” (They took over the duties and obligations.)
  • Example: “He assumed the position of chairman.” (He stepped into the role, usually due to someone else leaving.)
  • Example: "The company will assume all legal costs." (The company will take on the financial burden.)

3. “Assume” as a Noun – An Assumption

As a noun, "assume" refers to a belief or supposition, something you take to be true.

  • Example: “His assume that she was lying was completely unfounded.” (His belief that she was lying was incorrect and without basis.)
  • Example: "It’s important to challenge your own assumptions." (Reflect on the beliefs you hold.)

Key Considerations & How to Avoid Problems:

  • Be Cautious: Using "assume" often carries a negative connotation – it can imply a lack of critical thinking. It’s usually better to say things like "I believe," "I think," "I suspect," or "I’m guessing" when you're not entirely sure.
  • Contrast with "Believe" & "Think": "Belief" and "thinking" suggest a level of consideration and some grounding in reason, whereas "assume" often implies a leap in the dark.
  • Context is Crucial: Pay attention to the surrounding words and sentences to understand the intended meaning.

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To take something as true without proof "I assume he'll be late."
Verb To take on responsibility "She assumed the role of leader."
Noun A belief or supposition "His assumption was incorrect."

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "assume"? (e.g., writing an essay, speaking casually, etc.)
  • Can you provide a sentence where you're considering using "assume"?

Synonyms for the word assume

Practice with vocabulary assume

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Many people mistakenly __________ that artificial intelligence will replace all human jobs.
  2. It’s important to __________ responsibility for your actions, especially in a leadership role.
  3. The company decided to __________ a new strategy to improve customer satisfaction.
  4. She didn’t want to __________ too much, so she asked for clarification before proceeding.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words means to take on a role or responsibility?
    a) Assume
    b) Presume
    c) Accept
    d) Reject
  2. What is the best word to complete this sentence: "We should not __________ that everyone shares the same opinion."
    a) Assume
    b) Believe
    c) Think
    d) Guess
  3. Which of these words is not a synonym for "assume"?
    a) Conclude
    b) Suppose
    c) Ignore
    d) Deduce
  4. Which word fits best in this sentence: "She decided to __________ the project manager’s duties while he was away."
    a) Assume
    b) Reject
    c) Avoid
    d) Consider
  5. What is the correct word to complete this sentence: "He didn’t __________ any risks during the negotiation process."
    a) Take
    b) Assume
    c) Accept
    d) Imagine

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: "They believed that the meeting would be rescheduled without confirming it."
    Rewrite:
  2. Original: "She took on the responsibility of organizing the event."
    Rewrite:
  3. Original: "He thought the project would be completed by Friday."
    Rewrite:

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. Assume
  2. Take
  3. Adopt
  4. Assume

Exercise 2:

  1. a) Assume / c) Accept
  2. a) Assume
  3. c) Ignore
  4. a) Assume
  5. a) Take

Exercise 3:

  1. They assumed the meeting would be rescheduled without confirming it.
  2. She assumed the responsibility of organizing the event.
  3. He presumed the project would be completed by Friday.

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