inference

[in-fer-uh ns, -fruh ns] /ˈɪn fər əns, -frəns/
noun
1.
the act or process of inferring.
2.
something that is inferred:
to make rash inferences.
3.
Logic.
  1. the process of deriving the strict logical consequences of assumed premises.
  2. the process of arriving at some conclusion that, though it is not logically derivable from the assumed premises, possesses some degree of probability relative to the premises.
  3. a proposition reached by a process of inference.
Origin
1585-95; < Medieval Latin inferentia. See infer, -ence
Related forms
misinference, noun
preinference, noun
superinference, noun
Examples from the web for inferences
  • Bergen now drew some good inferences and found the only winning play.
  • There are many useful inferences that might be drawn from this research.
  • Model how to make inferences to complete the first item.
  • One cannot make any broader inferences about unbound object density based on that paper, one way or the other.
  • There are inferences to be drawn when the bidding takes an unexpected turn.
  • And scientists are no better at drawing inferences than anyone else.
  • What is truly astonishing is that from the map you can also make some inferences about cultural proximity.
  • Journal entry about the use of inferences from maps to make judgments.
  • All of the evidence for the existence of dark matter both observational and experimental is based on indirect inferences.
  • They can also be used to learn and practice valuable reading skills, such as making inferences and recognizing symbols.
British Dictionary definitions for inferences

inference

/ˈɪnfərəns; -frəns/
noun
1.
the act or process of inferring
2.
an inferred conclusion, deduction, etc
3.
any process of reasoning from premises to a conclusion
4.
(logic) the specific mode of reasoning used See also deduction (sense 4), induction (sense 4)
Word Origin and History for inferences

inference

n.

1590s, from Medieval Latin inferentia, from Latin inferentem (nominative inferens), present participle of inferre (see infer).

inferences in Culture

inference definition


In logic, the deriving of one idea from another. Inference can proceed through either induction or deduction.

Idioms and Phrases with inferences

inference

see: draw an inference
Encyclopedia Article for inferences

inference

in logic, derivation of conclusions from given information or premises by any acceptable form of reasoning. Inferences are commonly drawn (1) by deduction, which, by analyzing valid argument forms, draws out the conclusions implicit in their premises, (2) by induction, which argues from many instances to a general statement, (3) by probability, which passes from frequencies within a known domain to conclusions of stated likelihood, and (4) by statistical reasoning, which concludes that, on the average, a certain percentage of a set of entities will satisfy the stated conditions. See also deduction; implication.

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