assume a low profile

To maintain a minimal degree of public notice or exposure; to avoid drawing attention, scrutiny, or observation to oneself. In contrast to her predecessor, the new governor has assumed a low profile, making greater inroads behind closed doors while largely staying out of the public spotlight. It can be hard for celebrities to assume a low profile when they go out in public. The boss said we have to assume a low profile while the police presence in the city remains heightened.

assume liability for (something)

To take responsibility for something, typically a cost or expense. When you signed the contract, you assumed liability for fees like this. Somehow, that slippery little weasel has managed to avoid assuming liability for the complete financial disaster she left behind at the company. Are those morons in the front office going to assume liability for destroying the team?

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. I hear the CEO is retiring at the end of next year. Who's the frontrunner to assume the mantle? I never wanted to assume the mantle at the family business, but with my father's sudden death, it seems that I will have to.

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. I hear the CEO is retiring at the end of next year. Who's the frontrunner to assume the position? I never wanted to assume the position of chairman of the board, but with my father's sudden death, it seems that I will have to.

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. 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. The officer said, "Assume the position!" and that's when the suspect bolted. I assumed the position so the officers could check and confirm that I had no contraband on my person.