presume

verb5

1. •
   to count something as true without proof, because it seems the most likely case

   • Paw-prints in the snow allow us to presume a visit from next door's cat.
   • Dr. Livingstone, I presume?
2. •
   To take as a premise; to assume for the sake of argument.

   • If we presume that human cloning may one day become a mundane, everyday reality, then maybe it's time to start thinking more positively about our soon-to-arrive genetically engineered pseudo-siblings. — 2011
3. •
   To be so presumptuous as (to do something) without proper authority or permission [with to (+ infinitive)].

   • I don't want to pretend to be an authority on this line of business, so I would never presume to tell you how to run your own company.
4. •
   To impose (on) for one's advantage; to be presumptuous; to take advantage (of); to take liberties (with) [with on or upon].

   • Thanks, but I can't accept the money; I would not want to presume on the generosity of a stranger'
5. •
   (no longer used) To perform, do (something) without authority; to lay claim to without permission.

   • Don't make the decision yourself and presume too much.