Guess vs. Assume

Both verbs refer to think or believe something, although without certainty or proof. This lesson will highlight their difference.

What is the difference between 'guess' and 'assume'?

Both 'guess' and 'assume' are verbs that are used to imply uncertainty or absence of proof. 'Guess' means to try to find and state the right answer or the truth, while 'assume' refers to the idea of accepting something as true. This lesson will discuss the differences between these two verbs in more detail.

Difference in Usage

When you 'guess', you are making an estimate or trying to find the truth or come up with the correct answer based on limited information or without certainty. Guesses are often made when there is not enough evidence or when the situation is unclear. They are not necessarily grounded in facts or evidence. 'Assume', on the other hand, means you already have access to some idea and consider it true or valid, although still without explicit evidence or proof. It might be based on prior knowledge, general expectations, or personal beliefs. Here are some examples:

I can only guess why he didn't show up to the meeting.

She guessed his age to be around 40.

Here, the subject is making an estimation without certainty or evidence.

She assumed his age is around 40.

In this sentence, the subject has access to some information and thinks it is true.

I assume the train will be crowded during rush hour.

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