Thesaurus results for INFERENCE

inference

noun

ˈin-f(ə-)rən(t)s

Definition of inference

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of inference The Toronto company integrates AI model weights and silicon for better inference. — Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 7 Aug. 2026 But inference, filtering and pattern recognition can be highly valuable at the edge. — Ben Topor, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026 Its competitor, OpenAI, recently announced a new custom chip called Jalapeño designed for large language model inference in data centers. — Samuel Axon, ArsTechnica, 6 Aug. 2026 And with inference becoming one of the largest line items in a startup’s budget, this cost efficiency means more runway. — Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inference

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inference

Noun

Zahavy dissected the process that went into Albert Einstein’s formulation of his General Relativity Theory, noting that the scientist’s thinking evolved through three phases – deduction, induction, and finally, abduction.

— Joe McKendrick, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
The proposal has drawn questions from opponents about how the plan squares with the historic preservation easement placed on the property, which could unlock a tax deduction for investors as development rights are restricted.

— Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of deduction

Noun

Some estimates were too imprecise to support a firm conclusion, and previous longitudinal studies have reported links between loneliness, isolation and physical illness.

— The Conversation US, Scientific American, 8 Aug. 2026
The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center will close April 1, and not be returned to its regular users until the fall of 2028, after the conclusion of the Olympic Games.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 Aug. 2026

Definition of conclusion

Browse Nearby Words

inferable

inference

inferences

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Inference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inference. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of inference

noun

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster on inference

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

salvo

Popular in Grammar & Usage

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

7 Pairs of Commonly Confused Words

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

Why is '-ed' sometimes pronounced at the end of a word?

Popular in Wordplay

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

It's a Scorcher! Words for the Summer Heat

The Words of the Week - Aug. 14

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

Games & Quizzes