presuppose — To require or assume something as a necessary condition or starting point before proceeding.
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: To require or assume something as a necessary condition or starting point before proceeding.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌpriːsəˈpoʊz/
Example Sentences
- The recipe presupposes you know how to boil water - apparently I failed that prerequisite!
- Learning advanced calculus presupposes a solid understanding of algebra.
- His argument presupposes that aliens exist, which is quite a leap of faith.
presuppose
VERB[/ˌpriːsəˈpoʊz/]
To require or assume something as a necessary condition or starting point before proceeding.

They presuppose it's her — the surprise is ready before anyone checks.

Presuppose, suppose — until the truth is finally disclosed.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin praesupponere, meaning 'to place or put before.' The word entered English through French, combining the idea of placing something beforehand as a foundation for reasoning.
Breakdown
pre- (before/in advance) + suppose (to assume or place as a basis) = to assume something beforehand as a necessary condition
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“The recipe presupposes you know how to boil water - apparently I failed that prerequisite!”
“Learning advanced calculus presupposes a solid understanding of algebra.”
“His argument presupposes that aliens exist, which is quite a leap of faith.”
“The dating app presupposes that love can be found through swiping - how romantic!”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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