1. 假设：按照<韦氏新国际辞典>>的解释,假设(Postulate)的涵义有二:(1)提出一个认为是理所当然或不言自明的命题;(2)基本的前提或假定. 第一种解释的意思是说,该命题已获得公认,不过必须通过其他假设或一般原则、准则、程序来证实,即使这一假设被公认,

1. 假定；假设
    If you postulate something, you suggest it as the basis for a theory, argument, or calculation, or assume that it is the basis.

    e.g. ...arguments postulating differing standards for human rights in different cultures...
           假设不同文化有不同人权标准的论点
    e.g. Freud postulated that we all have a death instinct as well as a life instinct.
           弗洛伊德曾假定我们所有人都有生存本能和死亡本能。

2. 假定；假设
    A postulate is an idea that is suggested as or assumed to be the basis for a theory, argument, or calculation.

postulate

    e.g. Offe also challenges the postulate of an ''organized capitalism''.
           奥费也质疑“有组织的资本主义”的假设。

1. (logic) a proposition that is accepted as true in order to provide a basis for logical reasoning

    Synonym: posit

1. take as a given
    assume as a postulate or axiom

    e.g. He posited three basic laws of nature

    Synonym: posit

2. maintain or assert

    e.g. He contended that Communism had no future

    Synonym: contend

3. require as useful, just, or proper

    e.g. It takes nerve to do what she did
           success usually requires hard work
           This job asks a lot of patience and skill
           This position demands a lot of personal sacrifice
           This dinner calls for a spectacular dessert
           This intervention does not postulate a patient''s consent

    Synonym: necessitateaskneedrequiretakeinvolvecall fordemand