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assume

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assume the mantle

To take, inherit, or receive the responsibilities and duties associated with a certain position or job, especially one regarded as important or powerful. The king led the country for over 60 years; now, his daughter will assume the mantle of the throne.

See also: assume

assume the position

1. To take over the role and responsibilities of a particular job. My boss wants me to assume the position of treasurer this year, but I don't know if I want the extra workload.

2. A command issued by US law enforcement officers, meaning to stand with one's back to the officer and hold one's arms in a position to be either handcuffed or frisked. Primarily heard in US, South Africa. I knew I was in trouble when they asked me out of the car, but I knew I was going to jail when they told me to assume the position.

See also: assume, position

assume liability for

To take responsible for something, typically a cost or expense. When you signed the contract, you assumed liability for fees like this.

See also: assume

assume liability for something

to accept the responsibility for paying a cost. Mr. Smith assumed liability for his son's student loans. The store assumed liability for the injured customer's hospital bills.

See also: assume

*low profile

Fig. a persona or character that does not draw attention. (*Typically: assume ~; have ~; keep ~; give oneself ~.) I try to be quiet and keep a low profile. It's hard because I just love attention.

See also: low, profile