Presumptuous | Meaning, Definition & Examples
Presumptuous is an adjective meaning ‘excessively bold or forward’. It’s used to describe someone behaving in an entitled or overfamiliar way and therefore coming across as rude or arrogant. It can also mean ‘characterised by presumption’ or ‘likely to presume’.
Marco made a presumptuous remark when he said he should have won employee of the month.
It’s presumptuous to believe we are alone in the universe.
Karla is not presumptuous; she’s usually quite unassuming.
Presumptuous vs presumptive
Presumptuous and presumptive are both related to the word ‘presume’, but they don’t mean the same thing:
- Presumptuous is used to describe someone or something as ‘overstepping authority’ or ‘characterised by presumption’.
- Presumptive is used to describe something as ‘probable’ or ‘likely’. It’s used in the term ‘heir presumptive’, meaning someone who is likely (but not certain) to inherit something.
There was an upset in the race today when the presumptive winner actually finished in sixth place.
Other interesting language articles
If you want to know more about commonly confused words, definitions, and differences between US and UK spellings, make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.
Confused words
Definitions
US vs. UK spellings
Frequently asked questions
- What is a synonym of ‘presumptuous’?
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Some synonyms for ‘presumptuous’ include:
- Arrogant
- Audacious
- Bold
- Cheeky
- Conceited
- Familiar
- Forward
- Immodest
- Insolent
- Overconfident
- Overfamiliar
Scribbr’s Paraphraser can help you find even more synonyms for words like ‘presumptuous’.
- What is an antonym of ‘presumptuous’?
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Some antonyms (opposites) for ‘presumptuous’ include:
- Deferential
- Meek
- Modest
- Obedient
- Unassertive
- Unassuming
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Ryan, E. (2022, October 20). Presumptuous | Meaning, Definition & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 10 February 2025, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/definition/presumptuous-meaning/
