supposing

7 definitions • 13 examples

present participle of

to think that something is likely to be true:

[ + (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.

used to show that you think something is true, although you wish that it were not:

I suppose (that) all the tickets will be sold by now.

used when you are annoyed:

I suppose (that) you're going to be late again.

I suppose (that) you think that's funny. Well, I certainly don't.

used to show unwillingness to agree:

"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.

used in making polite requests:

I don't suppose (that) you could lend me £5 till tomorrow?

to expect and need:

Investment of this kind supposes (= would not be possible without) an increase in the company's profits this year.