Words / C1

PYOOT-uh-tiv/ˈpjuːtətɪv/

Putative means generally thought to be, without the fact yet being settled: a putative n, the putative spare. Assume (already in the dictionary) is everyday; “supposed” is not a cell.

Meaning

Generally thought to be; supposed (from assume, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “A putative n is still a methods hole until the raw count is in the cell.”
• “Assume is already in this course. Allege is already in this course. Supposed is a slogan. A codebook line is methods. Write the raw number; then mark it putative if the rule still allows it.”

Good to know

Supposed; generally taken to be. Everyday: assume (already in the dictionary). “Supposed” ≠ a filled n.

Near in meaning

supposed, reputed, presumed

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