This rests on the assumption
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
字面意思: This [the argument] sits or relies on the [unproven] belief
Use this to politely expose the underlying logic—or lack thereof—in someone's argument or plan.
15秒了解
- Points out the core requirement for an idea to be true.
- Used to challenge logic politely in professional or academic settings.
- Highlights a potential weakness or a 'hidden' belief.
意思
This phrase is used to point out the hidden foundation of an idea. It means that if one specific thing isn't true, the whole argument falls apart like a house of cards.
关键例句
3 / 6In a business meeting about a new product
Our success rests on the assumption that customers want more features, not lower prices.
Our success depends on the belief that customers want more features.
Discussing a friend's unrealistic travel plans
Your plan to hike the trail in a day rests on the assumption that you won't get lost.
Your plan only works if you don't get lost.
A formal academic debate
The author's conclusion rests on the assumption that human nature is inherently selfish.
The author's conclusion is based on the idea that humans are selfish.
文化背景
This expression originates from formal logic and philosophical discourse, specifically the 'Socratic method' of questioning. It reflects a Western cultural emphasis on linear reasoning and the deconstruction of arguments. In modern professional settings, it is a 'power phrase' used to assert intellectual authority without being overtly aggressive.
The 'That' Connector
Always follow this phrase with 'that' to introduce the specific idea you are questioning. It makes your sentence structure much cleaner.
Don't be a 'Logic-Bot'
If you use this phrase too often in casual conversation, people might think you are being overly critical or robotic. Save it for when it really matters!
15秒了解
- Points out the core requirement for an idea to be true.
- Used to challenge logic politely in professional or academic settings.
- Highlights a potential weakness or a 'hidden' belief.
What It Means
Imagine you are building a Lego tower. If the bottom brick is wobbly, the whole thing crashes. In English, this rests on the assumption is how you point at that bottom brick. You are saying, "Your idea only works if this one specific thing is true." It is a polite way to be skeptical. You aren't saying someone is wrong yet. You are just showing them where their logic might be weak.
How To Use It
You use this when you want to analyze a plan or a theory. Usually, you follow the phrase with the word that. For example: "Your plan rests on the assumption that it won't rain." It sounds very smart and calculated. It moves the focus away from the person and onto the logic itself. It’s like being a detective for ideas. Use it when you want to sound objective and thoughtful.
When To Use It
This is perfect for the office or a university seminar. Use it when a colleague suggests a massive project based on a guess. It’s also great for serious late-night debates with friends about politics or philosophy. If your roommate thinks they can survive on $5 a week, you can say, "That rests on the assumption that you'll only eat instant noodles." It adds a layer of intellectual weight to your conversation.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this during a heated emotional argument with a partner. If they say, "I'm sad you forgot our anniversary," do not reply with, "That rests on the assumption that I remembered the date in the first place." You will end up sleeping on the couch. Also, avoid it in very casual slang-heavy chats. It’s too "heavy" for a quick text about what pizza toppings to get. It can make you sound a bit like a robot if used too often.
Cultural Background
English speakers love "logical scaffolding." In Western debate culture, we value finding the "root" of a problem. This phrase comes from a tradition of critical thinking and formal logic. It became popular in legal and scientific writing. Now, it’s a staple for anyone who wants to sound professional. It reflects a culture that prefers to challenge ideas rather than attack people directly.
Common Variations
This hinges on the assumption(a bit more dramatic)This is predicated on the idea(very formal/academic)This assumes that...(the shorter, punchier version)Everything depends on the premise that...(very serious)
使用说明
This is a C2-level expression primarily used in formal writing and professional speech. It requires a clear 'that' clause following it to be grammatically complete. Avoid using it in high-stress emotional situations as it can come across as cold or dismissive.
The 'That' Connector
Always follow this phrase with 'that' to introduce the specific idea you are questioning. It makes your sentence structure much cleaner.
Don't be a 'Logic-Bot'
If you use this phrase too often in casual conversation, people might think you are being overly critical or robotic. Save it for when it really matters!
The Polite Challenge
In English-speaking business culture, this is a 'soft' way to say 'I think you're wrong.' It focuses on the logic, not the person, which helps avoid hurt feelings.
例句
6Our success rests on the assumption that customers want more features, not lower prices.
Our success depends on the belief that customers want more features.
Used here to identify a potential risk in the business strategy.
Your plan to hike the trail in a day rests on the assumption that you won't get lost.
Your plan only works if you don't get lost.
A gentle way to point out a friend's overconfidence.
The author's conclusion rests on the assumption that human nature is inherently selfish.
The author's conclusion is based on the idea that humans are selfish.
Critiquing the fundamental philosophy of a text.
My cat's confidence rests on the assumption that I will always open the door for him.
My cat only feels powerful because he knows I'll help him.
Applying a high-level phrase to a silly situation for comedic effect.
Mom's peace of mind rests on the assumption that we won't fight tonight.
Mom is only happy because she thinks we will behave.
Using the phrase to describe a family dynamic.
Our future together rests on the assumption that we can both move to the same city.
Our future depends on us being able to live in the same place.
Identifying a critical factor in a life-changing decision.
自我测试
Choose the correct word to complete the phrase in a professional context.
The entire marketing strategy ___ on the assumption that the market will grow this year.
While 'sits' is physically similar, 'rests' is the standard idiomatic verb used in this expression.
Complete the phrase to challenge a friend's logic.
Your argument rests ___ the assumption that everyone has a smartphone.
The preposition 'on' is always used with 'rests' in this specific idiom.
🎉 得分： /2
视觉学习工具
Formality Scale of 'Assumption' Phrases
Short and direct for friends.
You're assuming that...
Standard for daily work.
This is based on the idea that...
Professional and analytical.
This rests on the assumption that...
Academic or legal precision.
This is predicated upon the premise that...
Where to use 'This rests on the assumption'
Boardroom Meeting
Analyzing a budget proposal.
University Essay
Critiquing a scientific theory.
Serious Debate
Discussing social issues with friends.
Project Planning
Identifying risks in a timeline.
常见问题
10 个问题In this context, it means 'is supported by' or 'depends on.' Think of a building resting on its foundation.
Not necessarily, but in this phrase, it usually implies the idea is unproven. It suggests we should double-check that 'fact' before moving forward.
Yes, it is excellent for professional emails. For example: Our current timeline rests on the assumption that the parts arrive by Monday.
Absolutely. You can say, My argument rests on the assumption... to explain your own thinking clearly.
I think is a personal opinion. This rests on the assumption is an analytical observation about a logical structure.
Yes, it is universally used across all major English dialects, including British, American, and Australian English.
You can, but assumption sounds more professional and objective. Belief sounds more personal or religious.
The phrase still works! You are simply identifying the core requirement. If the assumption is true, the argument is solid.
Yes, predicated on is a more formal synonym. You’ll see it in legal documents or very high-level academic papers.
It is generally considered 'assertive' rather than 'aggressive.' It’s a way to be firm but intellectually honest.
相关表达
Hinges on
When one thing completely depends on another to work.
Based on the premise
The starting point or basic idea of an argument.
Given that
A way to state a fact that is already accepted as true.
Taken for granted
When you assume something is true without even thinking about it.
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