suppose

Universal Words verb 1 to think or believe that sth is true or possible (based on the knowledge that you have): [V] Getting a visa isn't as simple as you might suppose. * Prices will go up, I suppose. * [VNtoinf] (formal) This combination of qualities is generally supposed to be extremely rare. * [VNtoinf, VN-ADJ] (formal) She had supposed him (to be) very rich. * [VN-N] (formal) I had supposed his wife a younger woman. * [V(that)] I don't suppose for a minute that he'll agree (= I'm sure that he won't). * Why do you suppose he resigned? * I suppose all the tickets have been sold now, have they? * There is no reason to suppose she's lying. * I suppose you think that's funny, do you? (= showing anger). HELPNOTE 'That' is nearly always left out, especially in speech. 2 to pretend that sth is true; to imagine what would happen if sth were true: [V(that)] Suppose flights are fully booked on that day-which other day could we go? * Let us suppose, for example, that you are married with two children. * [VN] (formal) The theory supposes the existence of life on other planets. * [VN-ADJ] (formal) Suppose him dead-what then? [also VN-N, VNtoinf] 3 used to make a statement, request or suggestion less direct or less strong: [V] I could take you in the car, I suppose (= but I don't really want to). * 'Can I borrow the car?' 'I suppose so' (= Yes, but I'm not happy about it). * What I'm saying, I suppose, is that she's not really suitable for the job. * [V(that)] I don't suppose (that) I could have a look at your newspaper, could I? * Suppose we take a later train? IDIOMS be supposed to do / be sth 1 to be expected or required to do/be sth according to a rule, a custom, an arrangement, etc: You're supposed to buy a ticket, but not many people do. * I thought we were supposed to be paid today. * The engine doesn't sound like it's supposed to. * You were supposed to be here an hour ago! * How was I supposed to know you were waiting for me? * 'Yes and no.' 'What is that supposed to mean?' (= showing that you are annoyed) 2 to be generally believed or expected to be/do sth: I haven't seen it myself, but it's supposed to be a great movie. * She's supposed to have had hundreds of lovers. not be supposed to do sth to not be allowed to do sth: You're not supposed to walk on the grass.