- to assume (something) for the sake of argument, as part of a proposition or theory, a problem set to be solved as an exercise, etc.: If we suppose the distance to be one mile, and his jogging speed to be six miles per hour, how long will it take him to cover the distance?OK, let's suppose we can get through their defenses—what then?
- to consider (something) as a suggested possibility or proposed plan: Suppose we wait until tomorrow, after the weather clears up.
- to believe or presume to be true; take for granted: Most people supposed that his death was an accident.Will you go on forever supposing that you can act this way without consequences?
- to think or hold tentatively as an opinion; guess; imagine: What do you suppose he will do?I don’t suppose they’d lend us their truck, would they?
- to require logically; imply; presuppose: The evidence supposes his presence near the scene.
- to make assumptions or presuppositions; engage in hypothesizing or imagining: We must respect the ongoing investigation without supposing or speculating about the young man’s motives.I'm through with supposing and am going to start figuring!
- supposed to,
- expected, intended, or obligated to: According to the agreement, the landlord is supposed to do any necessary repairs.It wasn’t supposed to rain today.Is that squiggle supposed to be your signature?
- (used in the negative) not allowed to; forbidden to; obligated or required not to: I’m sorry, I didn't realize that I wasn't supposed to record the concert.Mom says we’re not supposed to touch the thermostat.
- assumed or alleged to: He's supposed to look just like his father, but I don't see it.
- to presume (something) to be true without certain knowledge
- to consider as a possible suggestion for the sake of discussion, elucidation, etc; postulate
- (of theories, propositions, etc) to imply the inference or assumption (of)
