Infer - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To infer means to deduce or conclude something based on evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements. It involves interpreting indirect information to form a logical judgment.
Definition:
Deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements.
Synonyms:
deduce, conclude, gather, surmise, interpret
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
state, declare, prove
Common Collocations:
infer meaning, infer conclusions, infer intentions, infer relationships
Derivatives:
inference, inferential, inferring
Usage Tips:
Use "infer" when drawing conclusions indirectly; the listener or reader infers what is implied.
Common Phrases:
read between the lines, put two and two together, draw an inference
Etymology:
From Latin "inferre," meaning "to bring in" or "conclude."
Examples:
- 1. She could infer from his tone that he was upset.
- 2. The data allows us to infer a trend in consumer behavior.
- 3. Don’t infer malice when ignorance could explain the mistake.
- 4. From the clues, the detective inferred the suspect’s identity.
- 5. His silence led me to infer he disagreed with the plan.