Assume/presume

To assume means to come to a conclusion based on incomplete evidence. To presume means to act as if a certain fact were true even if you don't know whether it is or not.

These two are often used interchangeably. But there is a fine distinction to be observed.

In court, the phrase is "presumption of innocence". Even though nobody seriously believes the accused is innocent, they agree to act as if that were so in order to administer a fair trial.

When you assume, however, you usually believe that what you're assuming is true (even though you may be proved wrong later).


Cheers

John.