WordValeinference
a conclusion reached from evidence
a conclusion drawn from evidence
In more detail
1. (noun) a conclusion that you reach by using information you already have
2. (noun) the act of reaching a conclusion based on available information
Examples
- 1. From the fact that she was smiling, I made the inference that she was happy.
- 2. The scientist used inference to explain the results of the experiment.
How to use inference
Inference refers both to the process of reasoning from evidence and the conclusion itself. It is commonly used in academic, scientific, and analytical contexts where conclusions are drawn from data or observation. It differs from assumption in that an inference is based on some evidence, whereas an assumption may be made without evidence.
Common phrases
- draw an inference
- make an inference
- reach an inference
- logical inference
- statistical inference
- inference engine
Synonyms
conclusion · deduction · interpretation · extrapolation · surmise
Word family
infer (verb) · inferential (adjective) · inferentially (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse inference (a conclusion you reach) with implication (something suggested or hinted at by someone else); you draw an inference, but you identify an implication.
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