what does infer mean in literature

Full Answer

What does the word infer mean?

infer. ( ɪnˈfɜː) vb ( when tr, may take a clause as object) , -fers, -ferring or -ferred. 1. to conclude (a state of affairs, supposition, etc) by reasoning from evidence; deduce. 2. ( tr) to have or lead to as a necessary or logical consequence; indicate. 3. ( tr) to hint or imply.

What is an example of inference in literature?

We draw inferences all the time when we say things like:

• “I don’t see Anne. She said she was tired, so she must have gone home to bed.”
• “Sarah’s been at the gym a lot; she must be trying to lose weight.”
• “Jacko is a dog, and all dogs love belly rubs. So Jacko must love belly rubs.”

What is the definition of inference in literature?

The literary definition of “inference” is more specifically: “Using clues provided by the author to figure things out.” You might use these context clues to figure out things about the characters, setting, or plot. Inferences are an important part of reading comprehension.

What is inference in the literature?

Inference is a literary device used commonly in literature, and in daily life, where logical deductions are made based on premises assumed to be true. Inferences are not so much used for coming to conclusions, but to open up new ways of inquiry.

What is an example of inference in literature?

“It was after we started with Gatsby toward the house that the gardener saw Wilson's body a little way off in the grass, and the holocaust was complete.” The above extract is one of the examples of inference from literature.

What is an example of a infer?

An inference is a conclusion that has been reached by way of evidence and reasoning. For example, if you notice someone making a disgusted face after they've taken a bite of their lunch, you can infer that they do not like it.

What does infer mean in reading?

Inferring means figuring out something that the author doesn't actually say. You can use clues that are in the text, and things from your own mind. Sometimes it's called "reading between the lines," and it adds a lot more meaning to the story.

What does infer mean in poetry?

An inference is a literary device that occurs when logical assumptions are made. These should be based on true premises, but are often based around those that are assumed to be true. An inference is a deduction made using the available facts (or what seem to be facts).

How do you infer in reading?

Making an inference involves using what you know to make a guess about what you don't know or reading between the lines. Readers who make inferences use the clues in the text along with their own experiences to help them figure out what is not directly said, making the text personal and memorable.

What is a infer in English?

infer, deduce, conclude, judge, gather mean to arrive at a mental conclusion. infer implies arriving at a conclusion by reasoning from evidence; if the evidence is slight, the term comes close to surmise.

What is infer used in a sentence?

I inferred from his silence that he was angry about my decision.

Does infer mean read between the lines?

An inference is “reading between the lines” to understand things not directly stated by the author. Inferences are based on information stated in text as well as what is known from personal experience which relates to the passage being read. TIPS: Making inferences means making a guess based on information.

Why do writers use inference?

Making inferences is a comprehension strategy used by proficient readers to “read between the lines,” make connections, and draw conclusions about the text's meaning and purpose. You already make inferences all of the time.

What is infer theme?

Infer - to come to a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning. It is something not written out. theme - an underlying message or “big idea”

What is infer used in a sentence?

I inferred from his silence that he was angry about my decision.

How do you write an infer?

How to Make an Inference in 5 Easy StepsStep 1: Identify an Inference Question.Step 2: Trust the Passage.Step 3: Hunt for Clues.Step 4: Narrow Down the Choices.Step 5: Practice.

What is a infer statement?

An inference is the process of drawing a conclusion from supporting evidence. It's when you go beyond the evidence and reach some further conclusion. We draw inferences all the time when we say things like: “I don't see Anne. She said she was tired, so she must have gone home to bed.”

How do you infer words?

1:312:24Reading skills: inferring the meaning of a word - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWrite down your own sentence using the word to help you to remember what it means.MoreWrite down your own sentence using the word to help you to remember what it means.

What does "infer" mean in English?

The English verb infer has always been used in logic to mean “to conclude by reasoning or from evidence.”. It comes from the Latin verb inferre “to carry in, enter, introduce, inflict,” composed of the prefix in- “in, into” and ferre “to carry, bear.”. Inferre meaning “to conclude, draw an inference, infer” is very rare in Latin, ...

What was the goal of the Flat-Toothed Predators?

Their goal was to see if they could infer how the flat-toothed predators crushed their prey without disturbing their dinner time.

What does "imply" mean in math?

To imply is to indicate or suggest something without actually stating it. Infer and imply can be confused because they’re often used at opposite ends of the same situation.

Why are "imply" and "infer" confused?

Infer and imply can be confused because they’re often used at opposite ends of the same situation. When someone implies something (suggests it without saying it explicitly ), you have to infer their meaning (conclude what it is based on the hints that have been given).

What does "inferred" mean?

to derive by reasoning; conclude or judge from premises or evidence: They inferred his displeasure from his cool tone of voice.

What language do pilots speak?

English is the official "language of the air," meaning all pilots are required to speak in English while in a flight.

Why is the word "sinister" Latin?

The word "sinister" is Latin for "left," because left-handed people were often thought of as suspicious, evil, or demonic.

What happened to Simba's father in Lion King?

You probably remember this scene in The Lion King. In it, Simba finds his father, Mufasa, trampled to death by wildebeests. As viewers, we see Simba trying to wake his father up, and we infer that Simba doesn’t understand death, or can’t bring himself to believe that his father is gone. At the same time, we’re watching Simba make the wrong inference – on the basis of the evidence (his father lying motionless on the ground), he’s reached the conclusion that Mufasa is simply sleeping or knocked out.

What is the hidden assumption in the quote "I think and all thinking things are"?

This might be the most famous inference in the history of philosophy. It’s pretty sound, logically, but in fact it contains a hidden assumption (i.e. it’s an enthymeme)! The hidden assumption is: all thinking things are. So to re-write the quote as a syllogism we’d have to make it “I think, and all thinking things are. Therefore I am.”

What is the most complete form of inference?

Also known as a syllogism (see Related Terms ), this is the most logically complete form of inference. Unlike Example #1, we actually can be sure this time. If the evidence is correct, then we can be quite certain that Socrates is mortal.

What is the process of drawing a conclusion from supporting evidence?

An inference is the process of drawing a conclusion from supporting evidence. It’s when you go beyond the evidence and reach some further conclusion. We draw inferences all the time when we say things like:

What is an enthymeme?

Enthymeme. This is a fancy word for a partial syllogism, one in which some evidence is assumed rather than stated. We’ve already looked at the syllogism of Jacko the dog. To make it into an enthymeme, simply drop one piece of evidence and turn it into an assumption: “ Jacko is a dog. Therefore Jacko loves belly rubs.”.

Why are inferences important in literature?

Inferences are also critically important for literature, because otherwise authors would have to explain everything to us out loud – how boring! Instead of saying “Harry turned red and started yelling,” the author would have to say “Harry felt angry.”. That would be much more dry and less fun to read.

Why do people confuse "assume" and "infer"?

People sometimes confuse the words “infer” and “assume.”. But assuming is what you do when you don’t have any evidence – it’s a belief you’ve already come to ahead of time. Assumptions are related to inferences because a general assumption helps us draw conclusions in any specific case.

What is the origin of the word infer?

According to Etymonline, the word infer (ɪnˈfɜr) had been used in logic since the 1520s and has a long history since the 16th century. This comes from the Latin inferre meaning to bring into. This comes from the Latin in from the Proto-Indo-European root en and the Latin ferre meaning to carry or bear from the Proto-Indo-European root bher meaning to carry or bear. This has been used to mean to draw a conclusion since the 1520s, and in an intransitive sense since the 1570s. Related words include the noun inference, the verb imply, and illative (adj.)/illatively (adv.).

What are synonyms and antonyms of the word infer?

These are called synonyms, which are words and phrases that have the same definition as another given word or phrase . Learning synonyms is useful if you are trying to avoid repeating the same word or if you are trying to expand your English language vocabulary. This list of synonyms for the word infer is provided by Thesaurus.

What is the third type of inference?

There are many laws of valid inference that are studied in logic, including a third type of inference from Charles Sanders Peirce, per Shabdkosh . Many different languages also contain words that mean infer (vb.). You might notice that some of these translations of infer look similar to infer.

What does "infer" mean in a sentence?

This word means to derive as a conclusion from facts, as well as to guess or surmise. In short, inferring something means to draw inferences. Uses of infer include to draw deductions or implications from different premises, to hint at something, to to make a valuable distinction between two things. The intended sense of the proper word is to draw an inference. The pronunciation of infer is ɪnˈfɜːr. One will have to infer when there is ambiguity, and make a reasoned conclusion or logical consequence about something about which there may be no proof. This verb has many different tenses, including the present participle, past tense, and more. There are many laws of valid inference that are studied in logic, including a third type of inference from Charles Sanders Peirce, per Shabdkosh .

What was the writer's unquestioned ability?

The writers of unquestioned ability were unable to infer the author’s meaning based on the circumstances. They were not given enough information to be able to make a useful distinction. Based on his cool tone of voice, the detective had the displeasure of knowing that the man committed the abduction.

What does it mean to infer something?

In short, inferring something means to draw inferences. Uses of infer include to draw deductions or implications from different premises, to hint at something, to to make a valuable distinction between two things. The intended sense of the proper word is to draw an inference. The pronunciation of infer is ɪnˈfɜːr.

What publisher infers that the author was not in the proper state of affairs to finish his book on medieval Latin?

The publishers at Harpercollins Publishers and Random House were able to infer that the author was not in the proper state of affairs to finish his book on medieval Latin. The man came on to the woman in a suggestive manner, and she was able to infer that he was hitting on her.

What Is Inference?

Inference is using observation and background to reach a logical conclusion. You probably practice inference every day. For example, if you see someone eating a new food and he or she makes a face, then you infer he does not like it. Or if someone slams a door, you can infer that she is upset about something.

How to make inferences in a text?

While this game may be fun, making inferences in a text works the same way. As you read, look for clues of the author's intentions. Ask questions, make predictions and come up with a conclusion. You would then want to test this conclusion through your experience and the author's background.

What does it mean to enroll in a course?

Enrolling in a course lets you earn progress by passing quizzes and exams.

What is the goal of reading a book?

After you have taken time to read about the author, you are ready to start to read the writing. Your goal as you read is to make conclusions. These conclusions are not stated, but you should read between the lines to understand what the author is trying to say. As you read, make guesses.

Why is it important to make inferences?

Why is it important to make inferences? When writing a story, an author will not include all the information for us. He/she will expect us to read between the lines and reach conclusions about the text. When making inferences, you are looking beyond what is stated in the text and finding the ideas to which the author only hints. This makes you a more active reader and critical thinker. It also makes it easier to understand what the author is sharing with you.

What weapons did the sailor use?

The weapons: wrench, lead pipe, rope, revolver, knife and candlestick.

How to find the intended meaning of a writing?

The first step to reaching a conclusion of the intended meaning of a writing is to look at the author. You should spend time reading the author's biography. Look at his/her other works and see what they have in common. Also, look at the historical and cultural context of the writing.

What would happen if Lily said "I don't like your outfit"?

If Lily had just said “I don’t like your outfit. You should change, ” she wouldn’t be implying anything. She’d just be bluntly saying what she thought. Then, there would be no need to infer that Lily is pretty critical . . . anyone looking for a new roommate?

What is the difference between "imply" and "infer"?

Imply Vs. Infer. Imply and infer both refer to unspoken communication. The sender of this unspoken message is the one who implies, while the receiver is the one who infers. To imply is to subtly hint at a hidden message that isn’t part of the actual words spoken or written.

What does it mean to infer?

To infer is to read into a message to understand the deeper meaning. You can make an assumption based on actions or the way things were said/written. So, if someone sends you flowers, it would be safe to infer that they like you.

Does Lily like Jane's outfit?

This is technically a yes – or-no question. But, in this case, Lily is implying that she doesn’t like Jane’s outfit. Jane could infer, based on Lily’s tone and the use of the word really , that she doesn’t like the outfit very much. If Lily had just said “I don’t like your outfit.

What is an inference?

An inference is a deduction made using the available facts (or what seem to be facts). Often, inferences are regarded as rational but “non-logical.”. This means that the facts are rationally understood and deduced but, perhaps, the conclusion is not as logical as it seems. For example, two people might look at the same situation ...

What happened after we started with Gatsby toward the house?

It was after we started with Gatsby toward the house that the gardener saw Wilson’s body a little way off in the grass, and the holocaust was complete.

What is Iago's white daughter?

In these lines, Iago is alluding to Othello taking Barbantio’s white daughter, Desdemona. He’s the “black ram” and she the “white ewe” that’s been stolen from her father. Explore William Shakespeare’s poetry including his 154 sonnets.

Why are inductions important?

Writers can include them in everything from a narrative poem to a novella. Often, inductions are used in dialogue and readers won’t think anything about them. They don’t always stick out as a clear literary device. That is because they are such a common part of everyday life.

What is science fiction?

Science fiction is a literary genre that focuses on imaginative content based in science.

What is an autobiography?

An autobiography is an account of one’s life written by the subject.

What does tone tell us?

Tone tells us how the writer feels about the text, at least, to an extent. All forms of writing, aside from the academic, have a tone of some sort.

What grade do you cite the textual evidence that most strongly supports an analysis of what the text says explicitly?

Grade 8 (Reading Standard): Cite the textual evidence that most strongly supports an analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

What grade do you cite textual evidence?

Grade 6 (Reading Standard): Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.

What grade do you need to cite a text?

Grades 11-12 (Reading Standard): Cite strong and thorough textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text, including determining where the text leaves matters uncertain.

What is grade 4 reading?

Grade 4 (Reading Standard): Refer to details and examples in a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text.

What is an inference for kids?

Definition of Inference for Kids. Inference. When you have the skill, it often is invisible. But when a student lacks the skill, yikes. It can be difficult to define, difficult to explain, and most importantly, very difficult to teach to a child for whom this skill doesn’t naturally occur or evolve. A pop culture example of someone who lacks ...

What to do if your child lacks the skill to infer?

If your child lacks the skill to infer or seems to be having trouble developing this skill, it should be noted as an area of need and put in the IEP. Again, the skill to infer is often a skill that we take for granted, but it is a valuable and necessary life skill.

What is inference in literature?

It is the act of taking your previous knowledge base and combining it with the information being presented to you to draw a conclusion. In the school setting, it is often used with literature.

What is the key to comprehension?

Inference: Key to Comprehension. Inference is drawing conclusions based on information that has been implied rather than directly stated and is an essential skill in reading comprehension. People make inferences every day, both in oral and written communication.

What is the purpose of making inferences?

Making inferences requires students to combine what they are reading with what they already know, to reach into their own personal knowledge and apply it to what they are reading. In the previous example, a student needs to know that having a bathing suit means someone is going swimming and that getting seasick means someone is going on a boat.

What is shared reading?

Shared reading. Have students read in pairs; one student reads a short paragraph and must summarize the paragraph to her partner. The partner asks questions that have not been specifically answered in the summary to have the reader make inferences about the passage.

What do teachers do with students who make inferences?

Teachers must work with such students to help them understand the process of making inferences, to be aware of inferences made in oral conversations, and then to apply this understanding to written works.

Do students with dyslexia have difficulty drawing inferences from written text?

Students with dyslexia have difficulty drawing inferences from written text. A study completed by F.R. Simmons and C.H. Singleton in 2000 compared the reading performance of students with and without dyslexia. According to the study, students with dyslexia scored similarly when asked literal questions to those without dyslexia; however, ...

How to reinforce inferring information from text?

The following are ideas and activities teachers can use to reinforce inferring information from text: Show and infer. Rather than show and tell, have students bring in a few items that tell about themselves. The items should be in a paper bag or trash bag, something the other children can't see through.

Where do students write inferences?

Students write their inference in the treehouse, and the clues to back up the inference on each rung of the ladder. Worksheets can also be as simple as folding a paper in half and writing the inference on one side of the paper and the supporting statements on the other.

I. What Is Inference?

• An inference is the process of drawing a conclusion from supporting evidence. It’s when you go beyondthe evidence and reach some further conclusion. We draw inferences all the time when we say things like: 1. “I don’t see Anne. She said she was tired, so she must have gone home to bed.” 2. “Sarah’s been at the gym a lot; she must be trying to lose ...

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III. The Importance of Inferences

IV. Examples of Inference in Literature

v. Examples of Inference in Popular Culture

VI. Related Terms