26984 words

suppose

10 definitions • 20 examples
1
to think that something is likely to be true:

Examples:

[ + (that) ] Dan didn't answer his phone, so I suppose (that) he's busy.
He found it a lot more difficult to get a job than he supposed it would be.
[ + (that) ] Do you suppose (that) Gillian will marry him?
It is widely supposed (that) the CEO will be forced to resign.
[ + to infinitive ] We all supposed him to be German, but in fact he was Swiss.
Her new book is supposed to be (= generally people think it is) very good.
2
used to show that you think something is true, although you wish that it were not:

Examples:

I suppose (that) all the tickets will be sold by now.
3
used when you are annoyed:

Examples:

I suppose (that) you're going to be late again.
I suppose (that) you think that's funny. Well, I certainly don't.
4
used to show unwillingness to agree:

Examples:

"Can I go out tonight?" "Oh, I suppose so."
[ + (that) ] I don't agree with it, but I suppose (that) it's for the best.
5
used in making polite requests:

Examples:

I don't suppose (that) you could lend me £5 till tomorrow?
6
to expect and need:

Examples:

Investment of this kind supposes (= would not be possible without) an increase in the company's profits this year.
7
used at the beginning of a sentence or clause to mean 'what would happen if':

Examples:

Suppose we miss the train - what will we do then?
We'd love to come and see you on Saturday, supposing (= if) I don't have to work that day.
8
to expect or believe:

Examples:

[ I ] "Will you be going with them?" "Yes, I suppose (so)."
[ + (that) clause ] "You don’t suppose (that) they forgot about meeting us, do you?"
9
Suppose can also show that you are guessing about something:

Examples:

[ T ] I suppose it’s about six months since I last had the brakes checked.
10
(used at the beginning of a sentence or clause) what would happen if:

Examples:

Suppose we miss the train – what would we do then?
Supposing that you had that opportunity, Mrs. Gallagher, what would you say?

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