# deduce

/dɪˈdus/ (US) · /dɪdjˈuːs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deduce
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to find out something by using your logic and the facts you already know. You use this when you reach a conclusion based on evidence.

For teachers: to infer a conclusion from evidence or reasoning. Transitive — requires a direct object representing the conclusion or fact being reached.

## Examples

- I can deduce that he is lying from his nervous behavior.
- By analyzing the crime scene and the witness statements, the detective was able to deduce the suspect's identity.
- The philosopher argued that one can deduce the existence of a higher power from the intricate design of the natural world, though this remains a point of significant debate among modern scholars.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.