vermuten

/fɛɐ̯ˈmuːtən/
verbIntermediate
general

To suspect or assume something without certain proof; to believe something is likely true based on evidence or intuition.

Ich vermute, dass es morgen regnen wird.

I suspect it will rain tomorrow.

Die Wissenschaftler vermuten, dass es eine Verbindung zwischen den beiden Phänomenen gibt.

Scientists suspect there is a connection between the two phenomena.

💡

Often used in contexts where evidence is incomplete or circumstantial.

Collocations

etwas vermutento suspect somethingjemanden vermutento suspect someonedass... vermutento suspect that...

Synonyms

Antonyms

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

'Vermuten' is more formal than 'glauben' (to believe). Use it when you have some evidence but are not entirely certain.

Gold Rule

Conjugation

Like most German verbs, 'vermuten' follows regular conjugation patterns. The past participle is 'vermutet'.

📖Word Origin

From Middle High German 'vermüeten', from Old High German 'firmūten' (to think, believe), related to 'muten' (to dare).

📝Usage Notes

Often used in formal or investigative contexts, such as police work or scientific research. Can imply a degree of uncertainty.

Word Breakdown

ver-
intensifier or causative prefix
prefix
+
-muten
to dare or think
root
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