Introduction: "Imply" and "Infer" are two words that are often confused because they are related in meaning but are used differently. "Imply" refers to suggesting something indirectly, while "infer" refers to drawing a conclusion based on evidence or reasoning. Let's explore their meanings and differences in detail.
Definitions
- Imply: A verb meaning to suggest or hint at something without saying it directly.
- Infer: A verb meaning to deduce or conclude information from evidence or reasoning rather than from explicit statements.
Key Differences
- Imply refers to what someone or something suggests or hints at without directly stating it (e.g., "Her tone of voice implied that she was upset").
- Infer refers to the act of drawing a conclusion based on indirect evidence or reasoning (e.g., "From his actions, I inferred that he was angry").
Examples of "Imply" (To Suggest Indirectly)
- His statement was meant to imply that she had made a mistake.
- The teacher's silence seemed to imply disapproval.
- The article implied that the company was in financial trouble.
- Her smile implied that she knew more than she was letting on.
- The report implied that there were serious safety concerns.
- His actions implied that he wasn't interested in the proposal.
Examples of "Infer" (To Deduce from Evidence)
- From her expression, I inferred that she was not happy with the decision.
- He inferred from the signs that the event was going to be cancelled.
- After hearing the explanation, I inferred that the project was delayed.
- Based on the weather forecast, we inferred that the rain would stop by evening.
- From his quick glance at the clock, I inferred that he was in a hurry.
- We inferred from the meeting that the proposal would not be approved.