Reading Theme:
Suppose: Definition, Examples, and Common Usage (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：assume (suppose)
suppose
/səˈpoʊz/
v.
To think something is probably true, but you're not completely sure.
assume
➕
/əˈsuːm/
v.
To consider something as probable or likely, even without complete evidence or certainty.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'supponere' (sub- 'under' + ponere 'to place'), meaning 'to put under' then 'to assume as a basis'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think 'sup-pose': like a supervisor posing a question, you assume an answer without proof.
📖 Example
I suppose he's running late because of the heavy traffic.
I think it is likely that he is late due to the heavy traffic, though I am not certain.
🔗 Collocations
suppose that – Assume or consider that something is the case
let us suppose – Used to introduce a hypothetical situation
suppose a scenario – Imagine a particular set of circumstances
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
know (v.) – To be absolutely certain or aware of something
prove (v.) – To demonstrate the truth or existence of something
disbelieve (v.) – To refuse to accept something as true
🌱 Derivatives
supposedly (adv.) – According to what is generally assumed or believed
supposition (n.) – An idea or theory that one believes is true
supposed (adj.) – Generally assumed or believed to be the case
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'suppose' entered English via Old French 'supposer', from Latin 'supponere'. Originally meant 'to put under', later developed the sense 'to assume, to take as true' in logical reasoning.
Meaning 2：be expected to (suppose)
suppose
/səˈpoʊz/
v.
To be expected or required to do something because it's the rule or the right thing to do.
be expected to
➕
/biː ɪkˈspektɪd tuː/
v.
Used to indicate what is required, intended, or considered appropriate according to rules, customs, or plans.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
We are supposed to keep quiet in the library to let others concentrate.
We are expected to remain quiet in the library so that others can focus.
🔗 Collocations
be supposed to do – Be expected or obligated to perform an action
not be supposed to – Be prohibited or not allowed to do something
be supposed to be – Be believed or assumed to be a certain way
🔄 Synonyms
be required to (phrase) – Be necessary or mandatory to do something
be expected to (phrase) – Be anticipated or demanded to do something
should (modal v.) – Indicates obligation or advisability
🚫 Antonyms
be allowed to (phrase) – Be permitted to do something
be optional (phrase) – Not required; left to choice
be forbidden (phrase) – Be prohibited or not allowed
🌱 Derivatives
supposedly (adv.) – According to what is generally assumed or believed
supposition (n.) – An idea or theory that one believes is true
supposed (adj.) – Generally assumed or believed to be the case
Wordbook
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