Basic Details
Word: Inference
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: A conclusion or thought that you come to based on evidence or reasoning rather than direct information.
Synonyms: Deduction, conclusion, assumption
Antonyms: Fact, certainty
Idioms and Phrases
- Jump to conclusions: To make a hasty inference or decision without having all the information. Example: "Be careful not to jump to conclusions; we need more facts before deciding."
- Read between the lines: To understand a deeper meaning that is not directly stated. Example: "When she said she was fine, I had to read between the lines to see she was upset."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The detective made an inference about the suspect based on the evidence found at the scene.
Example 2: By observing the cloudy sky, we made the inference that it was going to rain soon.
Example 3: Its important to provide evidence when making an inference in your writing.
Fun Fact
The word 'inference' comes from the Latin word 'inferre', which means 'to carry into'. This reflects the idea of carrying meaning or understanding from one idea to another based on reasoning.
Famous Quote
"The greatest enemy of knowledge is not ignorance, it is the illusion of knowledge." Stephen Hawking this highlights how inference can lead us to believe something without full understanding.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "inference" mean?
a) A type of animal
b) A conclusion based on reasoning
c) A specific fact
d) A piece of information
Answer: b) A conclusion based on reasoning
2. Which of these is a synonym of "inference"?
a) Assumption
b) Fact
c) Result
d) Opportunity
Answer: a) Assumption
3. What is the opposite of "inference"?
a) Assumption
b) Certainty
c) Guess
d) Deduction
Answer: b) Certainty
4. Which sentence uses "inference" correctly?
a) The inference was dancing gracefully.
b) She made an inference based on the clues given in the story.
c) The inference grabbed a sandwich for lunch.
d) He played the inference at the concert.
Answer: b) She made an inference based on the clues given in the story.
5. Which idiom means making a quick conclusion?
a) Read between the lines
b) Jump to conclusions
c) Hit the nail on the head
d) Walk on eggshells
Answer: b) Jump to conclusions
