inference from

USAGE SUMMARY

"inference from" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to deriving a conclusion from evidence or reasoning. For example, "The police drew an inference from the witnesses' stories to determine what had happened."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

No one should draw any negative inference from our declining comment".

The New York Times

Dr Pete Inness, a tropical meteorologist from Reading University, said it was impossible make any inference from a single season.

The Guardian

So, by inference from the percentages, does that mean that the NSA is equal to 400 Googles?

The Guardian - Opinion

By inference from its tax and spend commitments, life outside health and schools would be pretty gloomy.

The Guardian

The critic Alexander Walker called "2001" "the first mainstream film that required an act of continuous inference" from its audiences.

The New Yorker

But the inference from frequencies to chances is more subtle.

SEP

Thus, the inference from determinism to inevitability can be blocked.

SEP

First, the inference from 6 to 7 might seem suspect.

SEP

The inference from 6 to 7 seems sound.

SEP

Now the inference from P2 to Q2 instantiates epistemic transmission.

SEP

But why does the inference from 3 to 4 fail?

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inference from", ensure that the source from which the inference is drawn is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, "the inference from the data" is clearer than simply "the inference".

Common error

Avoid overstating the certainty of an inference. Use qualifiers like "suggests", "implies", or "indicates" to reflect the potential uncertainty inherent in the inferential process. Be clear about the limitations of your "inference from" the available information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inference from" functions as a prepositional phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase. It typically modifies a noun or verb, indicating the source or basis from which an inference is drawn. This is supported by the examples provided, where it connects the act of inferring to specific data or observations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

56%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inference from" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves to link a conclusion to its source, providing context and justification for the reasoning process. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in specifying the source of the inference and avoid overstating the certainty of your conclusions. Exploring alternatives like "deduction from" or "reasoning from" can enhance your writing's precision and nuance. By following best practices, you can effectively use "inference from" to convey well-supported and credible arguments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deduction from

Replaces "inference" with "deduction", emphasizing a more logical and certain conclusion.

reasoning from

Focuses on the process of reasoning rather than the conclusion itself.

derivation from

Highlights the act of obtaining something from a source, often in a mathematical or logical context.

conclusion based on

Emphasizes that the conclusion is dependent on the preceding information.

extrapolation from

Suggests extending known information to predict or infer something new.

implication from

Highlights the suggestion or indication that can be understood, even if not directly stated.

consequence from

Focuses on what results or follows from something.

hint from

Suggests a subtle clue or indication from which something can be inferred.

drawing insights from

Emphasizes gaining understanding or knowledge from something.

presumption from

Indicates an assumption made based on available evidence.

FAQs

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

You can use "inference from" to describe drawing a conclusion based on certain evidence or observations. For example, "The detective made an inference from the clues at the crime scene."

What are some alternatives to using "inference from"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "deduction from", "reasoning from", or "conclusion based on".

Is there a difference between "inference from" and "conclusion from"?

"Inference from" emphasizes the process of drawing a conclusion, while "conclusion from" highlights the result itself. Both are valid, but "inference from" might be more appropriate when focusing on the reasoning process.

How do I avoid making incorrect inferences?

To minimize errors, carefully consider the evidence, acknowledge any limitations in the data, and avoid jumping to conclusions. Clearly state the basis for your "inference from" the available information and be open to revising your views as new evidence emerges.