Infer

/ɪnˈfɜːr/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.

From her expression, I could infer that she was not happy with the outcome.

To derive by reasoning; conclude or judge from premises or evidence.

Scientists often infer the existence of ancient species from fossil records.

To suggest or hint at something indirectly.

In his speech, he seemed to infer that changes would be coming soon.

To earnestly imply a conclusion based on available information.

The weather patterns allow us to infer that it might rain tomorrow.

Latin 'inferre', meaning 'to bring in or upon, to carry in or on'

inferred meaning

A proposed interpretation derived from a given context or evidence.

the inference drawn

The conclusion reached based on available evidence.

inferred from context

Understanding information based on contextual clues.

inference

The act of drawing a conclusion based on evidence or reasoning.

inferable

Capable of being inferred.

inferential

Relating to or derived from inference.

Read between the lines

She didn’t say she was upset, but I could infer it if I read between the lines.

Connect the dots

After hearing his story, I connected the dots and inferred what really happened.