The words imply and infer are both transitive verbs that relate to two different parts of the same action, so it’s understandable that they are often confused.
Here we will look at definitions of infer vs imply and how to use them correctly, along with plenty of example sentences so you can be sure you are choosing the correct word every time.
What is the difference between infer and imply?
The simple difference between imply and infer is:
- When you imply something, you indirectly suggest or indicate that it is the case without explicitly stating so.
- When you infer something, you decide, conclude, guess, or deduce that it is the case based on the information provided.
You can imply something through written text, spoken words, and even body language or other actions. Here are some examples of when we imply or infer things in everyday life:
A speaker implies something by using hints or indirect language; a listener infers the meaning from what is said (or left unsaid).
A writer implies things without explicitly stating them; a reader infers meaning from what is written.
A performer implies mood or emotion through their acting; an audience infers this meaning when they view the performance.
An artist implies something through their artwork; the viewer infers the meaning from what they see.
Imply vs infer examples
Here are some example sentences showing when to use infer or imply:
- His abrupt manner implied that he didn’t want to make small talk.
- I inferred from his abrupt manner that I should get straight down to business.
- The artist’s use of bold colors and angular shapes implies strength and courage.
- From the expression on the subject’s face in the portrait, we can infer a sense of despair.
- The way she dresses implies that she is very wealthy.
- As I know she doesn’t work, I inferred that she must have a rich husband.
- Are you implying that I need to lose weight?
- Based on what evidence are you inferring this?
Implication vs inference
‘Implication’ is the noun form of ‘imply’ and ‘inference’ is the noun form of ‘infer’. We can carry the distinct meanings of the verbs over to the nouns:
- An implication is something that is implied; a suggestion; or something to be understood without being directly stated.
- An inference is something that is inferred; a guess, deduction, conclusion, supposition, assumption, or presumption; something you assume to be true from the information available.
See also: Assume vs presume
For example:
- His general implication was that the company needs to reassess its HR policy.
- The journalist’s implication of infidelity between the couple was unfounded.
- We can draw three inferences from this evidence.
Infer vs imply vs insinuate
‘Insinuate’ is similar in meaning to ‘imply’. It means to hint at or suggest something without stating it directly. The difference is that when you insinuate something, you do it in a sly or insidious way. ‘Imply’ has no such negative connotations.
Conclusion: Imply or infer?
The difference between imply and infer is fairly simple: the person conveying information implies, and the person receiving information infers.
This is similar to another pair of easily confused words, borrow and lend, in that they make up opposing sides of the same action.
Keep browsing more articles below to be confident you are using words correctly in English.
