Wouldn’t it be helpful if people simply accepted what you said without questioning it? Linguistic presuppositions, a key component of both the Meta Model and Milton Model language patterns, make this possible.

A classic example used by parents is: “Do you want to go to bed now or in 30 minutes?” While it appears to offer a choice, both options lead to the same outcome. As we grow older, we become more aware of these subtle techniques—though not always!

While this language structure can be used positively, it can also be manipulated for less ethical purposes. We often accept certain ideas as fact just to make sense of a sentence, without realizing the assumptions we’re unconsciously agreeing to.

Presuppositions can also limit our sense of choice—both when others use them on us and when we use them on ourselves. For example:

• “Have you stopped being so noisy?” (Implies you were noisy before.)
• “Have you learned to control your temper yet?” (Suggests you had an issue with temper control.)
• “When did you become so bossy?” (Assumes you are bossy now.)

Types of Linguistic Presuppositions

1. Presupposition of Existence

The most basic type assumes the existence of something.

• “Barry ate the hamburger.” (This assumes both Barry and the hamburger exist.)

Since our focus is on the action, we tend to overlook these built-in assumptions.

2. Presupposition of Awareness

This structure implies that something is already true; the only question is whether the listener is aware of it.

• “Do you realize you’re the first person to answer all the questions correctly?” (Assumes the answers were correct.)
• “You may notice a small icon in the top right corner.” (Implies the icon exists; you just need to find it.)
• “Are you aware that you’re already in trance?” (Takes for granted that you are in trance.)

3. Presupposition of Time

By including references to time—such as before, after, during, start, stop, continue, again, still, soon—we assume changes have already occurred.

• “Would you mind taking the garbage out before picking up Billy?” (Assumes you are picking up Billy.)
• “Are you still drinking?” (Suggests you were drinking before, and the only question is whether you’ve stopped.)
• “I saw her at the school again.” (Implies she has been there before.)

4. Presupposition of Order

Using words that indicate sequence—such as first, second, last, next, another, again—suggests a structured series of events.

• “My second husband is very funny.” (Implies a first husband existed.)
• “My first husband liked baseball.” (Suggests the person is no longer married to the first husband and may have future spouses.)

People often use these words unconsciously, revealing thoughts they might not have fully processed.

5. Exclusive “Or”

This structure forces a choice between two options, eliminating alternatives.

• “Would you like white or whole wheat?” (Assumes you are getting a sandwich.)
• “Would you prefer one year’s hosting or quarterly billing?” (Implies the purchase of hosting is already decided.)

6. Inclusive “Or”

This structure creates the illusion of choice when, in reality, the outcome is predetermined.

• “Do you want to pay for this now or when you pick it up?” (Assumes payment will be made.)
• “Would you like to take your bath before dinner or after?” (Takes for granted that a bath is happening.)

7. Adverbs and Adjectives

Descriptive words—such as just, only, even—subtly shape perception.

• “It’s just about perseverance.” (Implies perseverance is easy.)
• “She is just a homemaker.” (Dismisses the value of the role.)
• “It was a wonderful day.” (Assumes there was something enjoyable about it.)
• “My friend is as cheerful as her mother.” (Implies the mother is cheerful.)
• “Even my dog knows that.” (Suggests the person should already understand.)

Final Thoughts

Linguistic presuppositions are powerful tools that can shape conversations, influence beliefs, and even limit choices. Recognizing them allows us to challenge assumptions, refine our communication, and become more intentional with our words.