# infer

/ˌɪnˈfɝ/ (US) · /ɪnfˈɜː/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/infer
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

to reach a conclusion based on the information you have, even if it is not stated directly. You use this when you read between the lines to understand a hidden meaning.

For teachers: to deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements. Transitive; requires a direct object or a 'that' clause.

## Examples

- I can infer from your silence that you are unhappy.
- Readers must often infer the character's true motivations by observing their actions rather than listening to their dialogue.
- While the report never explicitly blames the management, one can easily infer a lack of oversight from the detailed timeline of the financial discrepancies.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The speaker inferred that the plan would fail." but "The speaker implied that the plan would fail." — Learners often confuse 'infer' with 'implied'. The speaker implies (suggests); the listener infers (deduces).

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and often takes a 'that' clause or a direct object.

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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.