WordValepresumptuous
overstepping proper bounds; too bold
In more detail
1. (adjective) behaving in a way that is too confident or bold, often without permission or being invited
2. (adjective) showing a lack of respect for someone's authority or position
Examples
- 1. It would be presumptuous of me to invite myself to your wedding without being asked.
- 2. He made a presumptuous remark to his boss, which cost him the promotion.
How to use presumptuous
Presumptuous describes behavior that overreaches or assumes too much without justification, often implying disrespect toward someone's authority or reasonable boundaries. It is more formal and carries a stronger judgment of inappropriateness than casual words like 'bold,' distinguishing it from neutral confidence. The word often appears in critical or disapproving contexts.
Common phrases
- presumptuous of someone to
- rather presumptuous
- quite presumptuous
- it is presumptuous to assume
- presumptuous behavior
Synonyms
arrogant · audacious · impertinent · overconfident · cheeky
Opposites
humble · modest · deferential
Word family
presume (verb) · presumption (noun) · presumptuously (adverb) · presumptuousness (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use presumptuous when they mean simply 'assuming something without evidence' (for which assume or presume alone is more accurate); presumptuous requires an element of overstepping social or hierarchical norms.
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