Infer Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈfɜːr/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To conclude or deduce something from evidence or reasoning; to draw a logical conclusion based on available information.

Examples

• From the data, we can infer that the new policy has been effective.
• Her behavior suggests that she is unhappy, but we can’t infer that for certain.

Synonyms

• Deduce
• Conclude
• Guess

Antonyms

• Know
• Assume

Additional Information

Infer is a verb that involves making a logical conclusion based on available information. It is often used in academic and scientific contexts to describe the process of drawing conclusions from data or evidence. In everyday language, infer can be used to describe the process of making an educated guess or drawing a conclusion based on incomplete information.

Infer is often confused with the word “imply,” which means to suggest or hint at something without directly stating it. While infer and imply are related, they have distinct meanings and uses.

Infer can also be used in a more formal or technical sense, such as in statistical analysis or scientific research. In these contexts, infer refers to the process of making conclusions based on data or evidence, and is often used in conjunction with other statistical or scientific terms.

Etymology

The word “infer” comes from the Latin “inferre,” which means “to carry or bring in.” This Latin root is also the source of the English word “inferior,” which means “lower or subordinate.” Over time, the meaning of “infer” has evolved to include the sense of drawing a logical conclusion or making an educated guess.

Usage Notes

Infer is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as academic or scientific writing. However, it can also be used in everyday language to describe the process of making an educated guess or drawing a conclusion based on incomplete information.

When using infer, it is essential to be clear and precise about the evidence or reasoning that supports the conclusion. This helps to avoid confusion or misinterpretation, and ensures that the conclusion is based on sound logic and evidence.

Cultural References

Infer has been used in various cultural references, including literature, film, and music. For example, the phrase “infer what you will” is often used in mystery or detective stories to suggest that the reader or listener should draw their own conclusions based on the available evidence.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Infer what you will
• Draw your own conclusions
• Make of it what you will

Related Words or Phrases

• Deduce
• Conclude
• Guess
• Assume

Collocations

• Infer from the data
• Infer that something is true
• Infer a conclusion

Frequency of Use

Infer is a moderately common word in modern language, and is often used in formal or technical contexts. However, it can also be used in everyday language to describe the process of making an educated guess or drawing a conclusion based on incomplete information.

Common Misspellings

• Infur
• Infir
• Inferr