# presumption

/pɹiˈzəmpʃən/ (US) · /pɹɪsˈʌmpʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/presumption
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

an idea that you believe is true even though you do not have all the facts yet. It can also mean behaving in a way that is too confident or a bit rude.

For teachers: the act of assuming something to be true in the absence of proof to the contrary; alternatively, behavior that oversteps the bounds of propriety. Often carries a legal or formal weight regarding the burden of proof.

## Examples

- There is a presumption of innocence until a person is proven guilty.
- The committee acted on the presumption that the budget would be approved by the end of the month.
- The legal system relies on the presumption of innocence to ensure that the burden of proof remains firmly with the prosecution throughout the trial.

## Usage notes

- Countable when referring to a specific belief; uncountable when referring to the general quality of being overconfident.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.