draw an inference

USAGE SUMMARY

"draw an inference" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of using evidence or facts to come to a logical conclusion. For example, "From the data collected, you can draw an inference that the product is selling well in the Midwest."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

An example is its approval (without qualification) of the use of "infer" to mean "imply": "infer 5: to give reason to draw an inference concerning: HINT <did not take part in the debate except to ask a question inferring that the constitution must be changed "Manchester Guardian Weekly>." Webster's Third New International Dictionary 1158 19611158 1961

Cornell University

The tribunal cannot "draw an inference of discrimination from the mere fact" of unfair or unreasonable behaviour by an employer.

The Guardian - Sport

"So you can look at three or four cases and try to draw an inference about bad priests and you would be wrong.

The New York Times

You can draw an inference that it wasn't the type of argument that Mr. Johnson claims the evidence shows, because the evidence doesn't show that at all.

Cornell University

The upshot is that the three steps simply tell doctors to gather data from which they may draw an inference in light of the correlations.

Harvard University

The company's instructions, he wrote, "simply tell doctors to gather data from which they may draw an inference in light of the correlations".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

He added: "The coroner drew an inference.

The Guardian

Methodological errors were identified that preclude drawing an inference of race-specific exclusion.

Journal of Criminal Justice

In drawing an inference from the settlement, a court must therefore account for the distorting effect of its own inference.

University of California, Berkeley

Yet few Americans would have dreamed they could get into trouble for drawing an inference based on observations at work.

The New York Times - Magazine

The trial judge did not prohibit the jury from drawing an inference from the general proposition to Graves' subjective thought process.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "draw an inference", ensure you provide the basis for the inference. Clearly state the data, facts, or observations from which the inference is drawn to enhance clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid drawing inferences without sufficient evidence. Base your inferences on concrete information rather than assumptions to maintain the validity of your reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "draw an inference" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of forming a conclusion based on reasoning and evidence. It is often used to describe the cognitive process of deduction, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

40%

Science

28%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "draw an inference" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies the process of forming a conclusion based on reasoning and evidence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and the analysis reveals its common usage in academic, news, and scientific contexts. To use the phrase effectively, provide clear evidence to support the inference. While the phrase is generally neutral to formal, it's advisable to avoid unsubstantiated inferences. Alternatives like "make a deduction" or "reach a conclusion" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. Remember to base your inferences on concrete information rather than assumptions for credible reasoning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deduce from the facts

This alternative focuses on using facts as the basis for a logical conclusion.

infer from the data

This alternative emphasizes the use of specific data as the basis for the inference.

make a deduction

This alternative is more direct and emphasizes the logical process of deduction.

derive a conclusion

This alternative suggests a more formal and systematic derivation of a conclusion.

reach a conclusion

This alternative focuses on the outcome of the reasoning process.

extract an implication

This alternative highlights the act of pulling out a hidden meaning or consequence.

surmise from the evidence

This alternative focuses on forming a belief based on limited evidence.

form an opinion

This alternative is less formal and suggests a personal judgment.

glean an understanding

This alternative suggests gathering knowledge bit by bit, leading to understanding.

figure out

This alternative is informal and implies solving a puzzle or mystery.

FAQs

How do I use "draw an inference" in a sentence?

You can use "draw an inference" to explain the process of reaching a conclusion based on evidence. For instance, "From the increasing sales figures, we can "draw an inference" that the marketing campaign was successful."

What is a more formal way to say "draw an inference"?

More formal alternatives to "draw an inference" include "deduce", "derive", or "conclude". These options are suitable for academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "draw an inference" and "make an assumption"?

"Draw an inference" involves reaching a conclusion based on evidence, while "make an assumption" involves accepting something as true without proof. Inferences are based on analysis, whereas assumptions may not be.

Is it better to "draw an inference" or "reach a conclusion"?

Both phrases are valid, but ""draw an inference"" emphasizes the process of reasoning from evidence, while "reach a conclusion" focuses on the final result of that reasoning. The best choice depends on the specific context.