leaps of inference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leaps of inference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of making assumptions or conclusions based on limited evidence or reasoning. Example: "In his argument, he made several leaps of inference that were not supported by the data presented."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Harrison (2008) and Ross (2008b) have argued for skepticism about the value of work of this kind, which involves various uncomfortably large leaps of inference in associating the observed behavior with specific imputed neural responses.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Each sequence has a strong and complex identity, intertwining many strands of relationships, interests, and emotions; their position and function in the story emerge from light leaps of imagination and concentrated inferences.

The New Yorker

(ii) Concepts and rules of inference.

SEP

We use this kind of inference sometimes, but birds are also a very unique group".

Huffington Post

Wolff's "strict method" in science, Kant explains, is predicated on "the regular ascertainment of principles, the clear determination of concepts, the attempt at strictness in proofs, and the prevention of audacious leaps in inferences" (Kant, 1998, 120).

SEP

It all involves leaps of imagination.

The New York Times

Those are my leaps of faith.

Forbes

"There were certainly some leaps of faith".

BBC

There are leaps of creativity.

TechCrunch

Talk about leaps of faith.

TechCrunch

In the absence of such concrete evidence, the jury was left with a case of inferences.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing an argument for using "leaps of inference", be specific about which steps in the reasoning are unsupported by evidence.

Common error

While technically correct, "leaps of inference" can sound overly formal or academic in casual conversation. Consider simpler alternatives like "making assumptions" or "jumping to conclusions".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leaps of inference" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb (e.g., "involve leaps of inference") or the subject of a sentence. It describes a process of reaching a conclusion that isn't logically supported by the available evidence, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "leaps of inference" describes unsupported logical jumps in reasoning. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct, though not overly common. It often serves to critique arguments in formal contexts like science, news, and media. If you're looking for alternatives, consider "logical jumps" or "unsubstantiated conclusions". Be mindful of its formality and use it judiciously in casual writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Inferential leaps

Uses a different adjective with very similar meaning.

Leaps in logic

Highlights breaks in the logical sequence.

Logical jumps

Emphasizes the gaps in reasoning.

Speculative inferences

Highlights the uncertain nature of the inferences.

Assumptions based on limited data

Highlights the lack of sufficient evidence.

Bold extrapolations

Emphasizes the extent of the extrapolation.

Unsubstantiated conclusions

Focuses on the lack of support for the conclusions.

Premature conclusions

Focuses on the rush to a conclusion.

Deductions with insufficient evidence

Focuses on the lack of support for deductions.

Big assumptions

Uses a more general term for the assumptions made.

FAQs

How can I use "leaps of inference" in a sentence?

You can use "leaps of inference" to describe arguments or reasoning that makes assumptions or draws conclusions without sufficient evidence. For example: "The argument relies on several "unsupported assumptions" and "leaps of inference".".

What are some synonyms for "leaps of inference"?

Alternatives include "logical jumps", "inferential leaps", or "assumptions based on limited data", depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to describe something as involving "leaps of inference"?

Generally, yes. Calling something a "leap of inference" implies that the reasoning is weak or unsubstantiated. However, it can sometimes be used neutrally to describe a creative or imaginative thought process, though this is less common.

How do "leaps of inference" differ from reasonable inferences?

"Leaps of inference" suggest a gap in logic or a lack of evidence, while reasonable inferences are based on available data and logical deduction. A reasonable inference is well-supported, whereas a "leap of faith" is not.