assume

To believe something is true before you have checked or have enough information.

• I assume you are tired.
• We assumed the shop was open.
• Why did you assume I had a car?

How to use it: assume that… (I assumed that you already knew.); assume someone/something to be something (We assumed the building to be empty.)

Similar words: suppose, presume

Common phrases: assume that, assume the worst, assume something

To take a job, duty, or position and begin doing what it requires.

• She will assume office tomorrow.
• He assumed responsibility for the project.
• The army assumed control of the city.

Similar words: take on, undertake

Common phrases: assume responsibility, assume office, assume control, assume a role

To act as if you have a feeling or quality that you do not really have.

• He assumed a cheerful tone.
• She assumed an air of confidence.
• They assumed calm expressions as the questions began.

Similar words: affect, feign

Common phrases: assume an air, assume a manner, assume a tone