Infer

verb · Command words

Definition

Draw a conclusion from evidence or reasoning rather than from a direct statement.

Explanation

Use clues in the information, such as data or text, and state the conclusion they support.

Example

Infer why the character avoids the town.

In an exam

Command-word meanings can vary between subjects, exam boards and mark schemes, so check your own board's guidance. See Exam Command Words: What Each Instruction Asks For.

Common confusion

An inference is not a guess. It must be supported by evidence.

Related terms

Study guides that use this term

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