Think, assume and expect use in the continuous forms

Rule 1: think can be used in the continuous when no opinion is given or asked for:

What are you thinking about? – I’m thinking about the play we saw last night. But

What do you think of it? (opinion asked for) – I don’t think much of it.

Tom is thinking of emigrating. What do you think of the idea? – I think it is a stupid idea. He should stay where he is.

Rule 2: Assume can be used in the continuous when it means ‘accept as a starting point’:

I’m assuming that you have time to do a lot of research.

Assume power/control of a country or organization can also be used in the continuous:

The saw government is assuming power at once.

Rule 3: expect can be used in the continuous when it means ‘await’

• I’m expecting a letter. 
• She’s expecting a baby in may.

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