adverse inference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adverse inference" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to a conclusion drawn from the absence of evidence or a party's failure to produce evidence. Example: "The court may draw an adverse inference against the defendant for failing to provide the requested documents."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

There is no provision which forbids drawing an adverse inference from the fact of standing mute.

Cornell University

You may draw an adverse inference from the fact that they do not take it.

Cornell University

Sections 34 and 35 allowed a judge and jury to draw adverse inference from silence by an accused either in interview or at trial.

The Guardian - Opinion

But please let no one draw any adverse inference from the Queen's actions in giving a Nazi salute as a seven-year-old.

The Guardian

Judge Fitzgerald rejected the mistrial motion on Wednesday but instructed the jury of six women and two men to draw an adverse inference because of the lapse.

The Guardian

"From that, they drew an adverse inference that everyone who came into contact with those patients was dirty," Mr. Nadjari said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

The legislation will also allow "adverse inferences" to be drawn by prosecutors if the suspects failed to mention something later relied on in court.

The Guardian

They have urged the judge, Mr Justice David Richards, to draw "adverse inferences" from the brothers' refusal to attend court to be cross-examined on evidence.

The Guardian

"We can't allow anybody to draw adverse inferences about historical figures and denigrate them.

Independent

[T]he Fifth Amendment does not forbid adverse inferences against parties to civil actions when they refuse to testify in response to probative evidence offered against them.

The Washington Post

And part is based on federal law; federal law likewise allows such adverse inferences in civil cases, as I noted in my original post.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal or evidentiary matters, ensure that the context clearly indicates who is drawing the "adverse inference" and from what specific facts or omissions.

Common error

Avoid applying the concept of "adverse inference" in non-legal or informal settings where its precise meaning might be misunderstood. In everyday conversation, simpler terms like "negative implication" or "unfavorable conclusion" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adverse inference" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of verbs like "draw" or "make". According to Ludwig AI, it's generally used to describe a conclusion reached due to a lack of evidence or an unwillingness to provide information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

50%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adverse inference" is a noun phrase commonly used in legal and academic settings to describe a negative conclusion drawn from a lack of evidence or refusal to provide information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and typical usage in legal contexts. While the phrase is appropriate for formal settings, alternatives like "negative implication" or "unfavorable conclusion" may be more suitable for informal communication. Usage examples from Ludwig highlight its prominence in news, academic, and scientific publications. The phrase’s formality suggests careful consideration of context to ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unfavourable inference

A direct synonym, simply using a different spelling of "unfavorable".

Negative implication

Changes the noun to focus on the result or consequence of the inference.

Negative presumption

Replaces inference with another term with the same meaning, presumption.

Unfavorable conclusion

Replaces "inference" with "conclusion" to emphasize the final decision or judgment reached.

Detrimental deduction

Emphasizes the harmful or damaging nature of the inference.

Damaging supposition

Highlights the potentially harmful aspect of the assumption made.

Prejudicial assumption

Focuses on the bias or unfairness potentially associated with the inference.

Inculpatory insinuation

Specifies that the inference suggests guilt or wrongdoing.

Derogatory presumption

Highlights the disparaging or belittling nature of the assumption.

Adverse finding

Shifts the focus from the process of inferring to the resulting discovery or conclusion.

FAQs

How is "adverse inference" typically used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, an "adverse inference" is a conclusion that is drawn against a party because of their failure to produce evidence or their refusal to testify. It suggests that the missing evidence or testimony would have been unfavorable to that party's case.

What alternatives can I use instead of "adverse inference" in less formal contexts?

In less formal settings, you can use alternatives like "negative implication", "unfavorable conclusion", or "detrimental deduction" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "draw an adverse inference"?

Yes, the phrase "draw an adverse inference" is a common and correct usage. It means to conclude something negative based on the available information or lack thereof.

Can an "adverse inference" be drawn from someone's silence?

Yes, in certain legal circumstances, an "adverse inference" can be drawn from a person's silence, particularly if they have a duty to speak or provide information. However, there are legal protections against drawing such inferences in criminal cases to protect the right to remain silent.