inference

[ in-fer-uhns, -fruhns ]

noun

1. the act or process of inferring.
2. something that is inferred:

   to make rash inferences.

3. Logic.
   1. the process of deriving the strict logical consequences of assumed premises.
   2. the process of arriving at some conclusion that, though it is not logically derivable from the assumed premises, possesses some degree of probability relative to the premises.
   3. a proposition reached by a process of inference.

inference

/ ˈɪnfərəns; -frəns /

noun

1. the act or process of inferring
2. an inferred conclusion, deduction, etc
3. any process of reasoning from premises to a conclusion
4. logic the specific mode of reasoning used See also deduction induction

inference

1. In logic , the deriving of one idea from another. Inference can proceed through either induction or deduction .

Other Words From

• mis·infer·ence noun
• pre·infer·ence noun
• super·infer·ence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of inference¹

From the Medieval Latin word inferentia, dating back to 1585–95. See infer, -ence

Idioms and Phrases

see draw an inference .

Example Sentences

They further alleged there was a "strong inference" that Mr Combs "paid witness two, after she posted her statement".

From BBC

But a source close to Nicoll told BBC Scotland News that she felt there was an "underlying inference" in the phone call that he wanted her to step aside.

From BBC

The judge reminded the eight women and four men of the jury that no inference can be made by Mr McGregor's refusal to comment.

From BBC

“Before every election, American authorities and media descend into hysteria about ‘Russain disinformation and inference,’” the embassy wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Christopher, from east London, believes these so-called secret inferences are bringing harm to people across the world.

From BBC

Related Words

• assumption
• conjecture
• interpretation
• presumption
• reasoning
• supposition