presuppose

UK: ˌpriːsəˈpəʊz | US: ˌpriːsəˈpoʊz

Definition
  1. vt. to assume or require as a prior condition

  2. vt. to imply or involve as a necessary premise

  3. vt. to take for granted in advance

Structure
pre <before>suppose <assume>sub <under>ponere <to place>
Etymology

presuppose = pre<before> + suppose<assume>

  • pre: A prefix from Latin prae-, meaning "before" in time, place, or order.
  • suppose: Derived from Latin supponere (sub<under> + ponere<to place>), meaning "to assume or hypothesize."

Etymology Origin:
The word "presuppose" emerged in Late Middle English, combining the Latin prefix pre- (indicating precedence) with the verb suppose. It reflects the logical act of assuming something before it is explicitly stated or proven, often as a foundational premise in reasoning. The term retains its original structure, with pre- modifying suppose to emphasize prior assumption.

Examples
  1. Scientific theories often presuppose certain unproven axioms.

  2. Your argument presupposes that all participants act rationally.

  3. The contract presupposes mutual trust between the parties.

  4. He criticized the study for presupposing its own conclusions.

  5. Religious doctrines may presuppose the existence of a divine being.