infer
ihn-FUR
Infer (verb) means to work out or conclude something based on evidence or reasoning, rather than being told directly. Example: “From her tone, I inferred that she wasn't happy with the decision.”
verb
1
To work out or conclude something based on evidence or reasoning, rather than being told directly.
"From her tone, I inferred that she wasn't happy with the decision."
"Scientists inferred the planet's size from its gravitational pull."
How to use infer
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo figure something out yourself from clues, rather than being told it outright.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with imply: a speaker implies something (hints at it), while the listener infers it (works it out). "He implied she was lying" vs "I inferred he was joking."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
infer from
can be inferred
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- infers
- Past tense
- inferred
Etymology
From Latin inferō, "to carry in, bring about" — in- + ferō, "to carry," related to English bear.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “infer” mean?
The word “infer” means to work out or conclude something based on evidence or reasoning, rather than being told directly. In plain terms, to figure something out yourself from clues, rather than being told it outright.
How do you pronounce “infer”?
“Infer” is pronounced ihn-FUR (/ɪnˈfɝ/ in IPA).
How do you use “infer” in a sentence?
Here is “infer” used in a sentence: “From her tone, I inferred that she wasn't happy with the decision.”
What part of speech is “infer”?
“Infer” is a verb.
Where does the word “infer” come from?
The word “infer” comes from Latin. From Latin inferō, "to carry in, bring about" — in- + ferō, "to carry," related to English bear.
Is “infer” a common word?
“Infer” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
