What does surmise mean?
Surmise means to form a tentative idea about something when the available evidence suggests it but does not prove it. In formal English, it is more than a casual guess: the word often implies that some reasoning or observation supports the conclusion. As a verb, surmise is followed by a clause, as in “They surmised that the letter had been lost.” As a noun, it names the resulting idea or supposition, as in “Her surmise was later confirmed.” The expression “a reasonable surmise” is especially common and emphasizes a conclusion that is probable rather than certain. Although surmise can sometimes suggest uncertainty, it is generally more deliberate and reflective than simply guessing. Its relatively formal register makes it especially suitable for literary, journalistic, and academic writing.
To infer or suppose something from incomplete evidence or as a likely possibility.
"From the warning signs, the officer surmised that the storm would soon reach the coast."
Often used in formal or literary contexts; the subject commonly surmises that something is the case.
An idea or supposition formed from incomplete evidence or as a likely possibility.
"There was no evidence to support their surmise that the theft had been an accident."
A formal noun, frequently used in expressions such as “a reasonable surmise.”
The plural is used for separate suppositions or tentative conclusions.
"The witness offered several surmises about what might have happened."
To surmise is to make a careful guess without pretending that certainty is possible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does surmise come from?
Surmise entered Middle English from Anglo-French or Old French, where it was associated with the idea of putting forward or suggesting something as a conclusion. Its ultimate root is Latin submittere, formed from sub- meaning “under” and mittere meaning “to send.” The modern English verb preserves the sense of forming an opinion without full proof, while the noun developed from the idea of a supposition itself.
Related word forms
How surmise is actually used
Surmise is formal and relatively uncommon. It usually conveys an informed guess rather than a random guess, and is often used in literary or academic prose.
Easily confused with surmise
As a verb, surmise means to infer or suppose from incomplete evidence; as a noun, it refers to the supposition or idea so formed.