'Inference' definitions:

Definition of 'inference'

From: WordNet
noun
The reasoning involved in drawing a conclusion or making a logical judgment on the basis of circumstantial evidence and prior conclusions rather than on the basis of direct observation [syn: inference, illation]

Definition of 'Inference'

From: GCIDE
  • Inference \In"fer*ence\, n. [From Infer.] [1913 Webster]
  • 1. The act or process of inferring by deduction or induction. [1913 Webster]
  • Though it may chance to be right in the conclusions, it is yet unjust and mistaken in the method of inference. --Glanvill. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. That which inferred; a truth or proposition drawn from another which is admitted or supposed to be true; a conclusion; a deduction. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
  • These inferences, or conclusions, are the effects of reasoning, and the three propositions, taken all together, are called syllogism, or argument. --I. Watts.
  • Syn: Conclusion; deduction; consequence.
  • Usage: Inference, Conclusion. An inference is literally that which is brought in; and hence, a deduction or induction from premises, -- something which follows as certainly or probably true. A conclusion is stronger than an inference; it shuts us up to the result, and terminates inquiry. We infer what is particular or probable; we conclude what is certain. In a chain of reasoning we have many inferences, which lead to the ultimate conclusion. "An inference is a proposition which is perceived to be true, because of its connection with some known fact." "When something is simply affirmed to be true, it is called a proposition; after it has been found to be true by several reasons or arguments, it is called a conclusion." --I. Taylor. [1913 Webster]

Synonyms of 'inference'

From: Moby Thesaurus

Words containing 'Inference'