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
Controlling the semiconductors most suitable for inference could become a more central point of a future U.S. export control strategy, particularly as Chinese companies incorporate models like DeepSeek’s into new real-world applications.
—
Owen J. Daniels, Foreign Affairs, 25 July 2025
Whilst not saying anything outright, the inference from the ‘career is short’ part can be that Isak told Howe what has now become public knowledge.
—Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
These people have not insisted on the same transparency for his many accusations and inference of complicity toward his enemies in the government, the press and the education community.
—Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2025
By blocking light, an exoplanet’s shadow can reveal its size and composition and, by inference, its potential to host intelligent life.
—Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for inference
Owen J. Daniels, Foreign Affairs, 25 July 2025
Whilst not saying anything outright, the inference from the ‘career is short’ part can be that Isak told Howe what has now become public knowledge.
—Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
These people have not insisted on the same transparency for his many accusations and inference of complicity toward his enemies in the government, the press and the education community.
—Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2025
By blocking light, an exoplanet’s shadow can reveal its size and composition and, by inference, its potential to host intelligent life.
—Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for inference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inference
Noun
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This high-profile tax benefit for reducing taxable income is available for those who itemize deductions on their federal tax returns instead of using the standard deduction.—
Kelly Phillips Erb,
Forbes.com,
2 Aug. 2025
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Patreon, another competitor to Passes, takes 8 to 12 percent as well as payout fees, with most creators reporting deductions of 15 to 20 percent.—
Katherine Fung,
MSNBC Newsweek,
30 July 2025
Noun
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Regulators should consider fast-tracking reviews for critical infrastructure projects, and assess potential regulatory impacts at the conclusion of key research and technology development projects.—
Deborah Wince-Smith,
Forbes.com,
29 July 2025
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Even on a day like Thursday, at the conclusion of a long and humid Carolina Panthers training camp practice, when he was approached by a reporter and didn’t even need to hear the first full question before knowing what he’d be asked to talk about.—
Alex Zietlow,
Charlotte Observer,
28 July 2025
Noun
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In just a matter of days, internet users have praised Hall's incredible determination, leading to over 4,100 comments so far.—
Alyce Collins,
MSNBC Newsweek,
27 July 2025
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Behind his determination is a fear of failure that weighs on his confidence.—
Brett Burlone,
The Orlando Sentinel,
27 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Inference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inference. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.
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