ENGLISH
REFERENCE

suppose

v.
A2 Elementary Oxford US //səˈpoʊz// UK //sʌpˈəʊz// sup·pose Archaic General-service

v. to think that something is likely to be true based on what you know. You use this when you are making a guess or assuming something.

v. to assume something to be the case on the basis of probability or as a starting point for an argument. Often used in the passive voice to indicate obligation or expectation.


SIMPLE

I suppose we should start getting ready for the party.

CONTEXTUAL

Since the lights are off and the car is gone, I suppose they went out for dinner.

COMPLEX

One might suppose that increasing the budget would solve the problem, but historical data suggests that structural changes are far more effective than simple capital injections.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English supposen, borrowed from Old French supposer, equivalent to prefix sub- (“under”) + poser (“to place”); corresponding in meaning to Latin supponere (“to put under, to substitute, falsify, counterfeit”), suppositum. See pose.

Usage

The verb is transitive and often takes a 'that' clause or an infinitive. When used in the passive 'be supposed to', it expresses duty or a widely held belief.

Pitfall

I am suppose to goI am supposed to goWhen expressing obligation, the past participle 'supposed' must be used with the auxiliary verb 'be'.

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