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Definition of presumption noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

presumption

noun
 
/prɪˈzʌmpʃn/
 
/prɪˈzʌmpʃn/
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  1. [countable] something that is thought to be true or likely
    • There is a general presumption that the doctor knows best.
    Extra Examples
    • The argument is based on certain presumptions about human nature.
    • There is a general presumption that fatty foods are bad for your heart.
    • We must ensure the discussion is not based on false presumptions.
    • You should examine your own presumptions.
    Topics Doubt, guessing and certaintyc2
    Oxford Collocations Dictionaryadjective
    • strong
    • general
    • correct
    preposition
    • presumption about
    • presumption against
    • presumption of
    phrases
    • the presumption of innocence
    See full entry
  2. [uncountable] (formal) behaviour that is too confident and shows a lack of respect for other people
    • She was infuriated by his presumption in not consulting her first.
    Topics Personal qualitiesc2
  3. [uncountable, countable] (law) the act of supposing that something is true, although it has not yet been proved or is not certain
    • Everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence until they are proved to be guilty.
    Extra Examples
    • The presumption of innocence is constitutionally protected.
    • There is a presumption in favour of your client.
    • a strong presumption of guilt
    • There is a strong presumption against the legality of using such weapons.
    Topics Doubt, guessing and certaintyc2
    Oxford Collocations Dictionaryadjective
    • strong
    • general
    • correct
    preposition
    • presumption about
    • presumption against
    • presumption of
    phrases
    • the presumption of innocence
    See full entry
  4. Word OriginMiddle English: from Old French presumpcion, from Latin praesumptio(n) ‘anticipation’, from the verb praesumere ‘anticipate’ (in late Latin ‘take for granted’), from prae ‘before’ + sumere ‘take’.
See presumption in the Oxford Advanced American DictionarySee presumption in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic English
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