inference
inference Lexical Profile
inference Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.
"Based on the footprints in the mud, the detective made the logical inference that the suspect had fled through the garden."
The cognitive or logical process of deriving logical conclusions from premises known or assumed to be true.
"Statistical inference allows researchers to estimate characteristics of an entire population by analyzing a smaller sample."
Word Nuance & Usage
Often confused with 'implication': a speaker or writer makes an implication (hints at something indirectly), whereas a listener or reader draws an inference (reaches a conclusion based on available evidence).
Word Origin & Etymology
Late 16th century: from Medieval Latin inferentia, from Latin inferent- ('bringing in'), present participle stem of inferre, from in- ('into') + ferre ('to bring, carry').