Reading Theme:
Assumption: Definition, Usage & Key Differences (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：something taken for granted (assumption)
assumption
/əˈsʌmpʃn/
n.
Something you believe is true without having proof for it.
something taken for granted
➕
/ˈsʌmθɪŋ teɪkən fɔːr ˈɡrɑːntɪd/
n.
An idea or belief that is accepted as true, often without concrete evidence or proof.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'ad-' (to) + 'sumere' (to take). Literally 'to take to oneself'.
💡 Mnemonic
Assume + option = assumption. When you assume, you pick an option without proof.
📖 Example
My history teacher always reminds us to question every historical assumption we read about.
My history teacher always reminds us to question every historical idea we read about that is taken for granted.
🔗 Collocations
make an assumption – To accept something as true without verifying it.
challenge an assumption – To question the validity of a widely accepted belief.
false assumption – A belief that is incorrect or not based on facts.
🔄 Synonyms
presumption (n.) – A belief based on reasonable probability or evidence, but not certainty.
supposition (n.) – An idea or theory that is assumed to be true, especially as a basis for reasoning.
premise (n.) – A statement or idea that forms the basis for a theory or argument.
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
assume (v.) – To suppose something to be the case without proof.
assumptive (adj.) – Characterized by assumption.
📖 Cultural Story
The word evolved from the Latin 'assumptio', meaning 'a taking up'. It entered English through Old French. Originally used in religious contexts (like the Assumption of Mary), it later broadened to mean the act of taking on a role or an idea.
Meaning 2：taking on a role (assumption)
assumption
/əˈsʌmpʃn/
n.
The act of starting to have a new role, duty, or power.
taking on a role
➕
/ˈteɪkɪŋ ɒn ə rəʊl/
n.
The action of taking on a position, responsibility, or power.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Her assumption of the team leader role brought a fresh and positive energy to the project.
Her taking on of the team leader role brought a fresh and positive energy to the project.
🔗 Collocations
assumption of power – The act of taking control or authority.
assumption of responsibility – The act of accepting a duty or obligation.
assumption of office – The formal act of beginning a term in an official position.
🔄 Synonyms
adoption (n.) – The action of taking on or embracing a new role, idea, or method.
undertaking (n.) – The act of committing oneself to a task or responsibility.
seizure (n.) – The act of taking possession of something, often power or control, sometimes forcefully.
🚫 Antonyms
relinquishment (n.) – The act of voluntarily giving up or letting go of a position or power.
abdication (n.) – The formal act of stepping down from a throne or high office.
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