Understanding the subtleties of English vocabulary can enhance your writing and speaking skills. Two words that often cause confusion are “assumedly” and “assumably.” While they might seem similar, they have distinct meanings and usage contexts. 

This article will clarify these differences, providing you with practical insights and examples to ensure precise communication.

Definitions and Etymology

Assumedly

Definition: The term “assumedly” is an adverb used to express something that is taken for granted or presumed without concrete proof. It implies that the speaker or writer is making an assumption rather than presenting verified information.

Etymology: Derived from the verb “assume,” which comes from the Latin “assumere,” meaning “to take up” or “to take for oneself.” In modern English, “assume” means to accept something as true without proof, and “assumedly” carries this meaning into adverbial form.

Assumably

Definition: On the other hand, “assumably” also functions as an adverb but is used to indicate that something can be assumed based on available evidence. It suggests that the assumption is plausible or likely, given the context.

Etymology: The word “assumably” combines “assume” with the suffix “-ably,” which denotes capability or likelihood. The term “assume” here retains its core meaning of taking something as true, while “-ably” suggests that the assumption is supported by some form of evidence or reasoning.

Usage in Sentences

Assumedly

Examples:

• “Assumedly, the event will take place as scheduled.”
  • This sentence suggests that the speaker presumes the event will occur without having confirmed it.
• “Assumedly, the deadline will be met.”
  • Here, “assumedly” implies that there is an expectation of the deadline being met, but it is not guaranteed.

Context: “Assumedly” is often used in informal contexts or everyday conversation where the assumption is more casual and less based on evidence.

Assumably

Examples:

• “Assumably, the data indicates a trend towards increased sales.”
  • This usage of “assumably” implies that the assumption is based on the evidence provided by the data.
• “Assumably, the project’s success is due to the new strategy.”
  • Here, “assumably” suggests that the success is likely attributed to the new strategy, based on available information.

Context: “Assumably” is more suited to formal contexts or written communication where the assumption is supported by evidence or reasoning.

Grammatical Considerations

Both “assumedly” and “assumably” function as adverbs, modifying verbs or entire clauses. Here’s how they differ grammatically:

• Part of Speech: Both words are adverbs but with slightly different connotations regarding the basis of their assumptions.
• Sentence Structure: They generally follow the same syntactic rules as other adverbs, modifying verbs or adjectives. For example:
  • “Assumedly”: “The report is, assumedly, incorrect.”
  • “Assumably”: “The report is, assumably, incorrect based on the new evidence.”

Common Mistakes:

• Confusing the two terms: Using “assumedly” when “assumably” is more appropriate (and vice versa) can lead to misunderstandings.
• Misusing in formal contexts: “Assumedly” may sound too casual for formal writing where “assumably” would be preferred.

Contextual Differences

Assumedly in Context

Informal Speech: “Assumedly” fits well in casual conversations or less formal writing where the basis for the assumption isn’t strictly evidential.

Written Text: In informal writing, such as blog posts or personal emails, “assumedly” is appropriate when making general assumptions without evidence.

Assumably in Context

Formal Speech: “Assumably” is ideal for professional or academic settings where the assumption is based on some evidence or logical reasoning.

Written Text: In reports, essays, or official documents, “assumably” is used to reflect assumptions that are logically supported by data or context.

Synonyms and Alternatives

Assumedly

Synonyms:

• Presumably
• Supposedly
• Likely

Usage Tips: These synonyms can often be used interchangeably with “assumedly” depending on the context. For instance:

• “Presumably”: “Presumably, the results will be available tomorrow.”
• “Supposedly”: “Supposedly, the system will be upgraded by next week.”

Assumably

Synonyms:

• Probably
• Likely
• Feasibly

Usage Tips: These alternatives fit well in contexts where evidence or reasoning supports the assumption. For example:

• “Probably”: “Probably, the shipment will arrive on time.”
• “Feasibly”: “Feasibly, the project can be completed by the deadline.”

Practical Exercises

Sentence Correction:

1. “Assumedly, the new policy will be effective.”
   • Correct Usage: “Assumably, the new policy will be effective.”
2. “Assumably, the meeting has been rescheduled.”
   • Correct Usage: “Assumedly, the meeting has been rescheduled.”

Fill-in-the-Blanks:

1. “________, the proposal has been accepted by the board.”
   • Choices: Assumedly, Assumably
   • Answer: “Assumably”
2. “________, the team will complete the project on time.”
   • Choices: Assumedly, Assumably
   • Answer: “Assumedly”

Real-World Scenarios:

• Scenario 1: You’re writing a business report and need to indicate that a project’s success is likely due to a new marketing strategy.
  • Best Choice: “Assumably, the project’s success is due to the new strategy.”
• Scenario 2: You’re discussing a casual assumption with a friend about the start time of a party.
  • Best Choice: “Assumedly, the party will start around 7 PM.”

Summary and Conclusion

Recap: Understanding the difference between “assumedly” and “assumably” is crucial for precise communication. “Assumedly” is used for informal assumptions without evidence, while “assumably” is suited for formal contexts where assumptions are based on evidence.

Importance of Proper Usage: Using the correct term enhances clarity and ensures that your assumptions are understood in the right context. Misusing these terms can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

Final Thoughts: Practice using these terms in various contexts to become more adept at distinguishing between them. Whether in casual conversation or formal writing, choosing the right word helps communicate your assumptions effectively.