surmise
To suppose something is true without having evidence
Examples
In a meeting
“I surmise that the delay is due to supply chain issues based on similar past situations.”
Over coffee
“I surmise they broke up from the way they've been avoiding each other.”
Why this word
guess
surmise implies inference from incomplete evidence, while guess suggests random speculation
assume
surmise acknowledges uncertainty in the conclusion, while assume treats it as given
think
surmise specifically means forming an opinion on scant evidence, while think is vague about reasoning
Usage tip
Use when making educated guesses. More sophisticated than 'guess' and acknowledges uncertainty.
Etymology
Old French 'surmise' — 'sur' (upon) + 'mettre' (put), meaning accusation, later evolved to conjecture
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Related words
presume
To accept something as true without proof, based on probability or reasonable grounds
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
delegate
To assign a task or responsibility to someone else.
validate
To confirm that something is correct, sound, or meets requirements.
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.