Inferring: meaning, definitions and examples

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inferring

 

[ ɪnˈfɜːrɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

logical reasoning

Inferring is the process of drawing conclusions based on evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements. It involves using existing knowledge and observations to deduce something that is not directly observed. This skill is often used in reading comprehension, scientific investigations, and everyday decision-making. The ability to infer is essential for critical thinking and problem-solving.

Synonyms

concluding, deducing, reasoning

Examples of usage

  • Inferring a character's feelings from their actions.
  • Inferring the meaning of a word from context clues.
  • Inferring results from experimental data.

Translations

Translations of the word "inferring" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inferindo

🇮🇳 अनुमान लगाना

🇩🇪 schließen

🇮🇩 menyimpulkan

🇺🇦 висновок

🇵🇱 wnioskowanie

🇯🇵 推論する

🇫🇷 inférer

🇪🇸 inferir

🇹🇷 çıkarım yapmak

🇰🇷 추론하다

🇸🇦 استنتاج

🇨🇿 usuzování

🇸🇰 vyvodenie

🇨🇳 推断

🇸🇮 sklepanje

🇮🇸 leiða að

🇰🇿 қорытынды жасау

🇬🇪 დასკვნის გამოტანა

🇦🇿 nəticə çıxarmaq

🇲🇽 inferir

Word origin

The word 'infer' comes from the Latin 'inferre', which means 'to carry in, bring in'. This term combines 'in-' meaning 'into' and 'ferre' meaning 'to bring'. The evolution of the word through Old French as 'inferred' led to its current usage in English. Dating back to the late Middle Ages, the use of 'infer' was more philosophical in nature, typically associated with Aristotle's works on logic. Over time, the concept expanded to encompass not just formal logic but also common reasoning in daily life and communication. It represents the cognitive ability to extend beyond what is directly stated, making it integral to understanding and interpreting various forms of information.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,203, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.