a reasonable inference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reasonable inference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when drawing a conclusion that is logical and based on available evidence or reasoning. Example: "Based on the data presented, it is a reasonable inference that the new marketing strategy will lead to increased sales."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

His presence at the masque that evening is a reasonable inference.

The Guardian - Books

"Certainly that would be a reasonable inference to make," Murray replied.

The Guardian

The record contains no probative facts from which the Court can draw a reasonable inference of causation under this theory.

Harvard University

Indeed, a reasonable inference to be drawn from the oracle would have been: "Don't kill older men!

The New York Times

The current search result for that imprecise phrase starts with links to Web pages saying that kings typically hold ceremonial scepters, a reasonable inference.

The New York Times - Tech

Accordingly, the Court held that Corwin-cleansing was unavailable because a reasonable inference could be drawn that the stockholders were not fully informed when they approved the transactions.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

"What we can offer, or make a reasonable inferences from, is that where the terrorists are holding terrain they are controlling everything that goes through it, including the trafficking of whatever — whether it's weapons or drugs".

The New York Times

So there is a perfectly reasonable inference that you too are conscious.

MIT Technology Review

When I asked Deb Roy, Twitter's chief media scientist and the founder of Bluefin Labs, whether Twitter users watch more live television than non-users, he replied that he didn't have any data to that effect, but added, "My guess is they watch less time-shifted". It's a thoroughly reasonable inference, but Magid's data contradicts it.

Forbes

An employee "has carried out his burden if he proves that he has in fact performed work for which he was improperly compensated and if he produces sufficient evidence to show the amount and extent of that work as a matter of just and reasonable inference," Kennedy wrote, citing a 70-year-old precedent that allowed for similar calculations for unpaid wages.

Huffington Post

However, since the study here lacked samples from large parts of Northern and Central Asia, reasonable inference about the population structure in Asia as a whole was not possible.

Forensic Science International: Genetics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a reasonable inference", ensure the context provides sufficient evidence to support the conclusion. Avoid overstating the certainty of the inference.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a reasonable inference" as a definitive fact without adequate backing. Clearly distinguish between inferred conclusions and verified information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reasonable inference" typically functions as a noun phrase. It is used to introduce a conclusion or deduction derived from available information. As shown by Ludwig, it highlights a logical connection between evidence and a conclusion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

32%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reasonable inference" is a versatile phrase used to present conclusions supported by evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various fields, including news, academia, and science. When employing this phrase, ensure the context adequately supports the inference, avoiding overstatement. Related phrases include "a logical deduction" and "a sound conclusion". Remember, while widely accepted, it's important to distinguish inferred conclusions from verified facts to maintain clarity and credibility. Using "a reasonable deduction" properly enhances the strength and persuasiveness of your arguments by showcasing the logic of your reasoning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a logical deduction

Emphasizes the step-by-step reasoning process leading to a conclusion.

a sound conclusion

Highlights the validity and reliability of the conclusion reached.

a justifiable assumption

Focuses on the legitimacy and support for the assumption being made.

a valid extrapolation

Suggests extending existing data to form a conclusion.

a fair judgment

Implies impartiality and objectivity in the derived conclusion.

a plausible explanation

Indicates a credible and believable reason or interpretation.

a well-founded belief

Stresses the solid basis of evidence supporting the belief.

a rational assessment

Highlights the use of reason and logic in the evaluation.

a tenable hypothesis

Indicates that the hypothesis is defensible and can be supported.

an educated guess

Suggests a conclusion based on knowledge and experience, rather than pure chance.

FAQs

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

Use "a reasonable inference" to introduce a conclusion drawn from the available evidence. For example, "Given the data, it is "a reasonable inference" that sales will increase."

What are some alternatives to saying "a reasonable inference"?

You can use alternatives such as "a logical deduction", "a sound conclusion", or "a justifiable assumption" depending on the specific context.

What makes an inference "reasonable"?

An inference is considered "reasonable" when it is based on available evidence and logical reasoning, rather than speculation or personal bias. The evidence should support the conclusion being drawn.

Is there a difference between ""a reasonable inference"" and "a logical inference"?

While both phrases suggest a conclusion drawn from evidence, ""a reasonable inference"" implies that the conclusion is justifiable given the circumstances, while "a logical inference" emphasizes that the conclusion follows logically from the premises.