a general inference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general inference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing conclusions drawn from a set of data or observations that apply broadly rather than to specific instances. Example: "From the survey results, we can make a general inference that most participants prefer online learning over traditional classroom settings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Existing test data support a general inference that the deformation behaviour of concrete elements is affected by the arrangement of reinforcement in the tensile zone.

Engineering Structures

Perhaps one embraces a general inference principle like "from P, it is permissible to derive I believe that P", or "normally, if something is good, I want it".

SEP

In some cases, the premises have no authority aside from the partner's agreement; in others, Socrates provides an argument for premises, usually in the form of an epagoge, a general inference from a set of examples.

SEP

Therefore, only a general inference on dietary patterns can be justified.

British Journal of Cancer

Using this framework, [ 14] developed a general inference procedure that can be used to identify active subnetworks in complex experiments over time.

Cell Communication and Signaling

Third, this study did not include elderly patients undergoing maintenance peritoneal dialysis and cannot make a general inference for this population.

Diabetes Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

We also discuss some theoretical results for the non-deterministic case although it is not clear how to employ them for a more general inference method.

Artificial Intelligence

Bart Selman, associate professor of computer science, on "The Next Generation of Automated Reasoning Methods". Selman said that only a few years ago, general inference beyond a few hundred variable problems was out of reach, but current reasoning engines can handle problems with over a million variables and several million constraints.

Cornell University

However, the small sample limits how far any general inferences about dynamics of mood in bipolar disorder.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

We note that the sample of eight patients is small, which limits how far any general inferences about dynamics of mood in bipolar disorder.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

From the limitations of their dissection methodology, it follows that any general inferences to be drawn about the relative sensitivity of cones to excitation of S- and M-opsins are not very informative, and in some cases misleading.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a general inference", ensure the evidence supporting the inference is broad enough to warrant the generalization. Avoid overstating the scope of your conclusion.

Common error

Avoid drawing "a general inference" from a small or unrepresentative sample. Ensure your data adequately supports the breadth of the conclusion you are making.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general inference" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a type of conclusion or deduction that is derived from a broad understanding or pattern, rather than specific instances. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

Academia

20%

News & Media

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general inference" is a noun phrase used to describe a broad conclusion or deduction derived from a range of evidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal and scientific writing, although it can also appear in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure your conclusions are adequately supported by the breadth of the data. Alternatives such as "a broad conclusion" or "a common deduction" may be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broad conclusion

Emphasizes the extensiveness of the conclusion drawn.

a logical derivation

Suggests the inference follows logically from known facts.

a common deduction

Highlights that the inference is a typical or expected one.

a standard interpretation

Indicates the inference aligns with commonly accepted meanings.

a general assumption

Highlights the presumptive quality of the inference, without specific evidence.

a widespread assumption

Focuses on the accepted nature of the inference within a group.

a reasonable extrapolation

Indicates the inference is a logical extension of existing knowledge.

a prevailing understanding

Suggests the inference is a current or dominant interpretation.

a typical generalization

Implies a common pattern noticed across instances.

a frequent observation

Highlights the inference as stemming from recurring sights or information.

FAQs

How can I use "a general inference" in a sentence?

You can use "a general inference" to describe a conclusion drawn from a wide range of observations or data. For example, "From the survey results, we can draw "a general inference" that most users prefer online learning."

What's the difference between "a general inference" and "a specific conclusion"?

"A general inference" refers to a broad conclusion based on overall trends, while "a specific conclusion" relates to a particular instance or case.

Which is more appropriate, "a general inference" or "a specific inference"?

Use "a general inference" when discussing broad patterns or trends. Use "a specific inference" when referring to a particular situation or case.

What can I say instead of "a general inference"?

You can use alternatives like "a broad conclusion", "a common deduction", or "a widespread assumption" depending on the context.