Definition of inferencenext
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

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 data center site, near Paris, was selected by Mistral in 2025 and will power the training of the company’s AI models and deliver inference services. Kai Nicol-Schwarz, CNBC, 30 Mar. 2026 The problem is that such inferences are often wildly speculative and will almost certainly lead to false convictions or arrests. Graham Hillard, The Washington Examiner, 20 Mar. 2026 The inference, plainly, is that is not the case at the moment. Oliver Kay, New York Times, 20 Mar. 2026 This idea of incorporating observations to support a mathematical hypothesis is a 200-year-old idea called Bayesian inference. David Hu, The Conversation, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inference
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inference
Noun
  • The overtime deduction applies to compensation covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA.
    Kate Dore, CFP®, EA, CNBC, 2 Apr. 2026
  • And their donors and boosters would no longer be eligible to receive tax deductions for gifting money to a program, just like a regular customer at a restaurant doesn’t receive a tax break for regularly dining there.
    Andrew Urbaczewski, The Conversation, 2 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The amazingly rapid reconstruction project came to a conclusion in December 2024.
    David A. Bell, The New York Review of Books, 4 Apr. 2026
  • Another great example of this in action is KPMG’s new early career program focused on human qualities such as critical thinking, data analysis, and drawing conclusions rather than technical know-how.
    Teuila Hanson, Fortune, 3 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • That work was on display this week as Thomas Jefferson High School junior Bella Smith helped younger students hunt for Easter eggs – a simple moment that mirrors her own determination.
    Robbie Owens, CBS News, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Those determinations complete the World Cup’s 48-team draw, as well as the full schedule, as North America for the first time serves as host.
    Michael McGough, Sacbee.com, 1 Apr. 2026

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“Inference.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inference. Accessed 9 Apr. 2026.

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