premise
UK[ˈprɛmɪs]US[ˈprɛmɪs]
n
A statement or idea that forms the basis for a theory, argument, or line of reasoning and is assumed to be true.
n
(plural) A house or building, together with its land and outbuildings, occupied by a business or considered in an official context.
v
To base an argument, theory, or undertaking on a particular initial statement or idea.
Morpheme Breakdown
pre
mise
pre
before
mise
to send/put
Etymology
The word "premise" originates from the Medieval Latin term praemissa (propositio), meaning "the proposition set before." This is the feminine past participle of praemittere, which combines prae- ("before") and mittere ("to send"). In classical logic, the premises were the statements "sent before" or "placed in front" as the foundational propositions leading to a conclusion. Over time, this logical sense broadened. By the late 14th century, it also came to denote physical property, likely from the idea of a house or building "set forth" in a legal document, such as a deed or lease, which listed the property at the beginning.
Analysis
Structure: pre (before) + mise (to send/put)
- pre: A prefix of Latin origin, meaning "before" in place, time, order, or importance.
- mise: From the Latin root miss- (past participle stem of mittere), meaning "to send" or "to put."
Examples
The entire argument rests on a flawed premise.
The company is moving to new business premises next month.
His theory is premised on the idea that all people are fundamentally good.