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How to Say "to presume" in Spanish

English → Spanish

asumir

ah-soo-MEERa.suˈmiɾ

verbC1general
Use 'asumir' when you are taking something for granted as true, often without explicit confirmation, implying a strong belief or expectation.
A cartoon character confidently stepping across a small gap between two platforms without looking down, illustrating presumption or taking something for granted.

Examples

Asumo que ya habrás leído el informe completo.

I presume you will have read the complete report by now.

Podemos asumir que el clima afectará el tráfico.

We can assume that the weather will affect traffic.

Mental Assumption

When used to mean 'to presume,' this verb is about making a logical jump or mental conclusion, rather than taking physical action.

presumir

preh-soo-meerpɾesuˈmiɾ

verbB2general
Use 'presumir' when you are suggesting or supposing something is true based on available evidence or common belief, often in a more formal or legal context.
A person looking at a closed cardboard box with a thought bubble above their head containing a toy ball.

Examples

Se presume que el sospechoso es inocente.

The suspect is presumed to be innocent.

Podemos presumir que los resultados serán positivos.

We can assume that the results will be positive.

Using 'Se presume que'

To say 'It is presumed that,' use the word 'se' before the verb. It's a very common formal way to express an assumption without blaming a specific person.

Asumir vs. Presumir

Learners often confuse 'asumir' and 'presumir' because both imply supposition. Remember that 'asumir' suggests a stronger, more personal assumption (taking it for granted), while 'presumir' is a more general supposition or belief, often based on external factors.

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