presumptuous
/pɹəˈzʌmp.tjuː.əs/
Group 6Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate; overstepping due bounds GRE
Example in Context
It would be presumptuous to assume that the committee's silence on the matter signals agreement with the proposal.
Synonyms
arrogantforwardoverstepping
Etymology
Taking liberties before being invited or allowed to do so.
- prae- (Latin) — before
- sumere (Latin) — to take
Memory Aid
🚪Sounds like “pre-sump-shus”
The PRE-SUMP SHUS guest barged in early, thinking it was a surprise party for him!
Visual Association
🙈A person walking into a party uninvited, while everyone stares in shock.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “presumptuous” mean on the GRE?
presumptuous (adjective) means “Failing to observe the limits of what is permitted or appropriate; overstepping due bounds”. It would be presumptuous to assume that the committee's silence on the matter signals agreement with the proposal.
How to remember “presumptuous” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “presumptuous” sounds like “pre-sump-shus”. The PRE-SUMP SHUS guest barged in early, thinking it was a surprise party for him!
What are synonyms for “presumptuous”?
Common synonyms: arrogant, forward, overstepping.