Infer

Definition

To deduce or conclude (something) from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈfɜr/
• Respelling: in-FUR (with "in" as in "tin" and "FUR" as in "her")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈfɜː/
• Respelling: in-FUR (with "in" as in "tin" and "FUR" as in "her")

In both dialects, "infer" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "FUR." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-FUR."

Etymology

The word "infer" originates from the Latin verb "inferre", which means "to bring in, carry, or convey." It's a combination of "in-" (into, toward) and "ferre" (to bear, carry). The sense of "deducing from evidence" began in English during the late 16th century.

Derivatives

• Inference (noun)
• Inferable (adjective)
• Inferring (verb, present participle)
• Inferred (verb, past tense)
• Inferential (adjective)

Synonyms

• Deduce
• Conclude
• Gather

Antonyms

• State
• Specify
• Enumerate

Usage

"Infer" is commonly used in both everyday and academic contexts to describe the process of drawing conclusions from available information or evidence. It is often used in discussions involving critical thinking, analysis, and logical reasoning.

Related Terms

• Implication
• Assumption
• Reasoning
• Deduction
• Interpretation

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Infer (Verb, General): To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements.
  • Example: "From the data presented, we can infer that the population is increasing."

• Infer (Verb, Specific): To derive by reasoning; to draw as a conclusion.
  • Example: "She inferred that he was unhappy from his body language."

Note: While "infer" pertains to drawing conclusions from available data, it is often mistakenly used in place of "imply", which refers to suggesting without overtly stating.