presupposition

UK: /ˌpriː.sʌp.əˈzɪʃ.ən/ | US: /ˌpriː.sʌp.əˈzɪʃ.ən/

Definition

  1. n. 1. An assumption or belief taken for granted before an argument or action proceeds.

  2. n. 2. (Philosophy) A proposition whose truth is assumed prior to reasoning.

Structure
pre <before>suppose <assume>ition <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "presupposition" combines three morphemes:

  1. "Pre-" (from Latin prae-, meaning "before") indicates temporal or logical precedence.
  2. "Suppose" (from Latin supponere, "to place under" or "assume") forms the core meaning of assuming something as a basis.
  3. "-ition" (a noun-forming suffix from Latin -itio) turns the verb into an abstract noun.
    The term emerged in the 16th century, originally in philosophical contexts, to describe foundational assumptions underlying arguments. Over time, it broadened to general usage for implicit beliefs.
Examples

  1. The theory's validity depends on an unproven presupposition about human nature.

  2. Detectives often work by challenging the presuppositions in witness statements.

  3. His argument collapsed when its hidden presupposition was exposed.

  4. Cultural presuppositions can lead to misunderstandings in international business.

  5. The philosopher examined the presuppositions underlying ethical systems.