supposes; supposed; supposing
1
: to think of (something) as happening or being true in order to imagine what might happen
Suppose a fire broke out. How would we escape?
Just suppose for a moment that you agreed with me.
Supposing he refuses to help, what do we do then?
2
a
: to believe (something) to be true
The renovations will cost much more than we originally supposed.
Who do you suppose [=think] will win?
b
: to believe (something) to be possible
—usually used following the pronoun I
I suppose [=(chiefly US) I guess] you're right.
I suppose that could happen, but it's not likely.
You could say, I suppose, that he was not ready for marriage.
"Do you suppose it's true?" "Yes, I suppose it is."
Note: In responding to a question, the phrase I suppose (so) is used as a way of agreeing or saying "yes" when you are not certain or not very excited or interested.
Note: The phrase I suppose not is used as an informal way of agreeing with a negative statement or of saying "no."
3
—used to ask a question in a polite way
Do you suppose you could help me make dinner? = I don't suppose you could help me make dinner? [=could you help me make dinner?]
I don't suppose you found the keys, did you? [=did you find the keys?]
Cite this Entry
“Suppose.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/suppose. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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