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vermuten
/fɛɐ̯ˈmuːtən/
to suspect
Die Polizei vermutet, dass der Dieb noch in der Nähe ist.
The police suspect that the thief is still nearby.
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...
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
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