Presume upon

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phrasal verb

To base one's actions upon someone's behavior or conditional situation and take advantage of it, often without permission or regard for them.

He continuously presumed upon my generosity, taking more than his fair share.
Visual representation of "presume upon" - To base one's actions upon someone's behavior or conditional situation and take advantage of it, often without permission or regard for them.

Often appears as...

  • presume upon kindness
  • presume upon generosity
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "presume upon"
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Negative Connotation

Using 'presume upon' implies disapproval of someone's behavior, usually selfishness or rudeness.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
I cannot believe she would presume upon our goodwill like this.
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Implies Expectation

'Presume upon' suggests an expectation that others will comply with the presumption.

Illustration for Implies Expectation
He just walked in and presumed upon my help without even asking.
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Not Always Negative

Sometimes 'presume upon' can imply initiative in informal settings; the tone is key.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
She presumed upon the team's agreement and led the project to success.
Visual representation of the word "Presume upon"

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