presumably
gb/pɹɪzˈuməbli/ us/pɹɪzˈuməbli/
B2
English
~ 2600
Senses
0 senses
adverb
B2
property
1
used to say something is likely true
Used when you think something is true but you are not sure.
Usage pattern:
Presumably, [statement]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'presumably' with 'apparently'. 'Presumably' is based on logical deduction, while 'apparently' is based on outward signs or reports.
Synonyms
probably (Slightly more common and less formal; expresses likelihood without strong emphasis on reasoning.)
|
apparently (Indicates something seems true based on appearance or what is heard, not necessarily logical deduction.)
Antonyms
certainly (Indicates complete certainty, the opposite of assuming without proof.)
|
definitely (Expresses absolute assurance rather than assumption.)
Collocations
presumably because
|presumably due to
|presumably as a result
|presumably linked to
Themes
communication
|reasoning
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- Presumably, she missed the meeting because she was ill.
- The keys are not on the table, so presumably he took them.
- Presumably, the train will arrive on time despite the weather.
- They have not replied yet, so presumably they are still considering the offer.
Learner examples
- Presumably, he is at school now.
- She is not here, so presumably she went home.
- Presumably, it will rain later.
- He did not answer, so presumably he is busy.
Grammar
Dictionary form
presumably
IPA
GB/pɹɪzˈuməbli/
US/pɹɪzˈuməbli/
Syllables & stress
pre - sum - ably (3 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (sum)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: presumably
- Plural: presumablies
Word family
Forms
presumablies
noun
Core family
presume
verb B2
presumption
noun C1
Related words
presumptuous
adjective
Advanced or less common
presumptive
adjective
Expressions
presumably not
1/pɹɪzˈuməbli nˈɑt/
fixed phrase
assumed to be untrue
Used to say you think something is probably not true.
Examples
- "Is he coming today?" "Presumably not."
- "Will they agree to our terms?" "Presumably not."
presumably so
1/pɹɪzˈuməbli sˈoʊ/
fixed phrase
assumed to be correct
Used to agree that something is probably true.
Examples
- "Will they come to the party?" "Presumably so."
- "Is this the right way?" "Presumably so."