Assume vs Presume

To presume as a verb = to assume = to suppose, to take for granted

In the case where both mean "to suppose", presume is usually used when you suppose based on probability, while assume is used when you suppose without any evidence at all.

However or to be so bold as to guess.

I presume that the children with their pants legs tucked inside of their colorful boot are boys.

Assume as a verb has additional meanings: to take upon oneself, to don something, or to undertake something.

He assumed the role of leader.

= He took it upon himself to be the leader.

= He took the role of leader upon himself.

= He took the leadership role upon himself.

He donned the role of leader.

= He donned the leadership role.

All 6 of the previous sentences are equivalent in meaning.

n the shared meaning of “to suppose,” presume is usually used when you suppose based on probability, while assume is used when you suppose without any evidence.