How to pronounce assume
Say it like uh-SOOM. Assume has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (SOOM).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce assume. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- uh
- SOOM
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Assume pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- SOOMSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
American vs British pronunciation of assume
- British speakers add a light "y" sound before the "oo" (as in "tyoon" for tune).
British respelling: uh-SYOOM.
What does assume mean?
- take to be the case or to be true; accept without verification or proof“I assume his train was late”
- take on titles, offices, duties, responsibilities“When will the new President assume office?”
- take on a certain form, attribute, or aspect“His voice took on a sad tone”“The story took a new turn”
Where does assume come from?
From Latin assūmō (“accept, take”), from ad- (“to, towards, at”) + sūmō (“take up, assume”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with assume
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of assume.
Questions about saying assume
How do you pronounce assume?
Say uh-SOOM. The American pronunciation is /əˈsum/. In British English it is /əˈsjuːm/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in assume?
Assume has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (SOOM). Broken into parts: uh · SOOM.
Is assume pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. British speakers add a light "y" sound before the "oo" (as in "tyoon" for tune). The British form is /əˈsjuːm/ (uh-SYOOM).