as in deduction
an opinion arrived at through a process of reasoning
that seems like a reasonable inference, but in this case it happens to be incorrect
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of inference
Some of these inferences may not be entirely secure.
—
Cass Sunstein, Big Think, 5 Mar. 2026
However, over time, inference—essentially deploying models at scale—will constitute the majority of AI computing.
—Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 27 Feb. 2026
Kids ages 5-12 can handle replica artifacts, such as an abacus, armor and lyre, and learn how professional archeologists make inferences.
—Jennifer Day, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
Marshall said a reasonable inference could be made that the program may violate the establishment clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from favoring one religion over others.
—Arkansas Online, 18 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inference
Cass Sunstein, Big Think, 5 Mar. 2026
However, over time, inference—essentially deploying models at scale—will constitute the majority of AI computing.
—Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 27 Feb. 2026
Kids ages 5-12 can handle replica artifacts, such as an abacus, armor and lyre, and learn how professional archeologists make inferences.
—Jennifer Day, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
Marshall said a reasonable inference could be made that the program may violate the establishment clause of the First Amendment, which prohibits the government from favoring one religion over others.
—Arkansas Online, 18 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inference
Noun
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Sexton admits the charitable component also makes the paycheck deduction slightly more palatable.—
Rohan Nadkarni,
NBC news,
11 Mar. 2026
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Smith and other Republicans are simultaneously trying to sell their past accomplishments, like the megabill’s tax deductions on tips.—
Nicholas Wu,
semafor.com,
11 Mar. 2026
Noun
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However, that conclusion has been questioned by some critics.—
Emily Hallas,
The Washington Examiner,
14 Mar. 2026
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Though the assessor’s office relies heavily on data and modeling, its conclusions, outside appeals and internal policies can drastically change values and make the office’s political tightrope shaky.—
A.D. Quig,
Chicago Tribune,
13 Mar. 2026
Noun
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By Wednesday, the determination of our collective destiny will be all over, bar the shouting.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
17 Mar. 2026
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Her journey, marked by immigration, loss, motherhood and entrepreneurship during an economic recession, reflects both the challenges and determination of immigrant business owners in the United States.—
Brianna Mantaras,
Miami Herald,
17 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Inference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inference. Accessed 19 Mar. 2026.
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