negative inference

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "negative inference" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is commonly used in logic, philosophy, and law to refer to conclusions or deductions made based on the absence or negation of certain information or evidence. Example: The prosecutor's argument was based on negative inference, as they tried to prove the defendant's guilt by highlighting the lack of an alibi and witnesses at the time of the crime.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Negative inference".

The Guardian - Film

He repeated: "There's a negative inference".

The Guardian - Film

It's more that he didn't enjoy the interviewer's negative inference.

The Guardian - Film

Perhaps negative inference doesn't come across well in print.

The Guardian - Film

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

The New York Times

"If people refuse, no negative inference will be drawn," she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

"It's simply wrong to draw negative inferences from it," Mr. Crawford, a prominent Toronto lawyer, said.

The New York Times

We understand from the context whether positive or negative inferences are to be drawn.

Independent

It has been suggested that most obsessions are prone to induce negative inferences about the self.

Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

Republican staff members objected that the Democrats' draft report drew unsupported negative inferences from faded memories and lack of e-mails.

The New York Times

For his part, Mr. Thompson also emphasized that he was not asserting that Ms. Breathitt had done anything improper, only that he was trying to show how easy it was to draw negative inferences in such situations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "negative inference" in legal or academic writing, ensure you clearly articulate the basis for the inference and its relevance to your argument.

Common error

Be cautious about drawing overly strong conclusions based solely on "negative inference". Always corroborate such inferences with positive evidence where possible to strengthen your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "negative inference" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "draw a negative inference") or as a subject complement. It describes the act of drawing a conclusion based on the absence or negation of evidence. As seen in Ludwig, the phrase is well recognized and utilized across various disciplines.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Academia

28%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "negative inference" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes drawing conclusions based on the absence of evidence or negation. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this phrase. It's particularly frequent in academic, legal, and journalistic contexts, demanding precision and clarity. When using this phrase, make sure to corroborate with other forms of evidence, as appropriate, to avoid overstating your conclusion. By understanding its usage, function, and purpose, writers can effectively integrate "negative inference" into their arguments and analyses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

negative implication

A direct synonym, simply using a different noun.

adverse implication

Focuses on the detrimental or unfavorable nature of the inferred conclusion.

drawing an unfavorable conclusion

Highlights the act of reaching a conclusion that is not positive or desirable.

unfavorable deduction

Highlights the process of reasoning towards a negative conclusion.

detrimental inference

Emphasizes the damaging or harmful aspect of the conclusion reached.

drawing a negative conclusion

Expresses the act of reaching a negative decision based on available information.

deriving a negative assumption

Highlights the process of forming a negative belief or expectation.

inferring a negative outcome

Focuses on predicting a negative result based on existing data.

construing negatively

Suggests interpreting something in a negative light.

presuming a negative result

Implies an expectation or anticipation of a negative outcome.

FAQs

How is "negative inference" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "negative inference" is generally used to describe drawing a conclusion based on the absence of something. For example: "The judge drew a "negative inference" from the defendant's refusal to testify".

What's a good alternative to "negative inference"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "adverse implication", "unfavorable deduction", or "negative implication".

In legal contexts, what does drawing a "negative inference" typically mean?

In law, drawing a "negative inference" often means that a judge or jury is allowed to assume the opposite of what a party claims because that party refused to provide evidence or testimony that would support their claim.

Is there a risk of misinterpreting "negative inference"?

Yes, it's crucial to avoid overstating conclusions based solely on "negative inference". It's best to corroborate these inferences with positive evidence to create a stronger, more convincing argument.