inference
A conclusion reached based on evidence and reasoning
Examples
In a meeting
“Based on the data, the inference is that customers prefer the premium option”
Over coffee
“My inference from his tone is that he's not happy about it”
Why this word
conclusion
Inference emphasizes deriving information from evidence through reasoning, while conclusion simply indicates an endpoint of thought
guess
Inference implies logical deduction from available data, while guess suggests speculation without systematic reasoning
interpretation
Inference specifically means drawing unstated conclusions from evidence, while interpretation is broader and includes explaining what's already present
Usage tip
Use when describing conclusions drawn from indirect evidence rather than explicit statements
Etymology
Latin 'inferre' (in- 'into' + ferre 'bring, carry')
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Related words
assumption
Something accepted as true without proof
rationale
The reasoning or logic behind a decision
infer
To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements
deduce
To reach a conclusion through logical reasoning
hypothesize
To propose an explanation or theory that can be tested
postulate
To suggest or assume something as a basis for reasoning