The word "assumption" is a noun that refers to a thing that is accepted as true or as certain to happen, without proof. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of them:
- Presumption
- Meaning: An idea that is taken to be true on the basis of probability; an act of presuming.
- Analysis: "Presumption" is very similar to "assumption." For example, "There was a presumption that he was guilty because of his previous record." It implies a belief that is based on some prior knowledge or probability. The difference between "presumption" and "assumption" is quite subtle. "Presumption" often has a slightly stronger connotation of making a judgment based on available evidence or a common understanding. While an "assumption" can be more of a guess or a taken - for - granted idea, a "presumption" might imply a more considered belief, though still without conclusive proof.
- Supposition
- Meaning: An idea or theory that is suggested or assumed to be true without firm evidence; a hypothesis.
- Analysis: "Supposition" emphasizes the speculative nature of the belief. For example, "Her supposition that the experiment would fail was based on her limited understanding of the subject." It's related to "assumption" in that it's a kind of tentative belief. However, "supposition" might imply a more conscious act of formulating an idea for the sake of exploration or discussion. In contrast to a more automatic or unconscious "assumption," a "supposition" can be more of an intellectual exercise, a proposed idea that awaits verification.
- Hypothesis
- Meaning: A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation; a supposition or proposed explanation.
- Analysis: "Hypothesis" is more formal and scientific than "assumption." For example, "The scientist's hypothesis was that a certain gene was responsible for the disease." It implies a more organized and testable idea. In comparison to an "assumption," a "hypothesis" is usually part of a structured process of inquiry. While an "assumption" can be a casual belief, a "hypothesis" is a proposed explanation that is expected to be tested and either supported or refuted through evidence - gathering and experimentation.
- Postulate
- Meaning: A thing suggested or assumed as true as the basis for reasoning, discussion, or belief; a fundamental assumption.
- Analysis: "Postulate" is also a more formal term, often used in academic or logical contexts. For example, "In geometry, we postulate that a straight line is the shortest distance between two points." It implies a starting point for a line of reasoning. In contrast to an "assumption," a "postulate" is more of a foundational belief that is often stated explicitly as a basis for further argument or analysis. It's a more deliberate and recognized starting point for a particular intellectual or theoretical framework.