C1nounformalacademicphilosophy
US/ˈprem.ɪs/
UK/ˈprem.ɪs/
an idea or statement that an argument or theory is based on
In context
The whole argument rests on the premise that people always act rationally.
If the basic premise is false, the conclusion cannot be trusted.
The course is built on the premise that anyone can learn to write well.
Words that go with premise
adjective + noun
- basic premiseThe basic premise of the book is simple: habits beat talent.
- central premiseI disagree with the central premise of the article.
- false premiseTheir policy is built on a false premise about unemployment.
- underlying premiseThe underlying premise of the test is that memory equals learning.
verb + preposition
- based on the premiseThe scheme is based on the premise that rewards motivate students.
verb + noun
- accept the premiseEven if we accept the premise, the conclusion does not follow.