assume/əˋsum; əˈsjuːm/v [T] 1 to think that something is true, although you have no proof 假定﹐假设: +(that) Your light wasn’t on, so I assumed you were out. 你的灯没开﹐所以我以为你出去了。let's assume that/assuming that Let's assume for a moment that you were the father of that child. 让我们暂且假设你是那个孩子的父亲。2 formal to take control, power, or a particular position【正式】获得〔控制权〕﹔掌握〔权力〕﹔担任〔职位〕: assume power/responsibility/authority etc Mark will assume the role of Managing Director. 马克将担任执行董事。3 to pretend to feel something or be something you are not 装出﹐假装: Gail assumed an air of indifference. 盖尔装出一副冷淡的样子。