Difference between Imply and Infer
The English verbs "imply" and "infer" are often confused, yet they have distinct meanings and are used differently in both spoken and written English. In this explanation, I will clarify the differences between these terms, using examples from British English to illustrate their proper application.
Imply refers to the act of expressing something in an indirect way. When a speaker or writer implies, they are not stating something outright, but rather hinting at it or suggesting it without saying it directly. According to the dictionary, "imply" means "to express indirectly".
For example:
"Are you implying that I was late on purpose?"
"Her tone implied that she was not pleased with the decision."
In these sentences, the speaker or the tone does not directly state the message, but rather suggests it in a subtle way. The key point is that the person who communicates (the speaker or writer) is the one who implies.
Infer, on the other hand, means to draw a conclusion based on evidence or reasoning. When someone infers, they take information that has been given (sometimes indirectly) and deduce a meaning or conclusion from it. The dictionary defines "infer" as "to derive as a conclusion from facts or premises".
For example:
"From what you said, I inferred that you were unhappy."
"The detective inferred the suspect's guilt from the evidence."
Here, the listener or reader is the one who infers; they are interpreting what has been said or observed and reaching a conclusion.
Comparison Table: Imply vs Infer
| Word | Who Does It? | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imply | Speaker/Writer | To express indirectly; to suggest | "He implied that the meeting was cancelled." |
| Infer | Listener/Reader | To deduce or conclude from evidence or hints | "She inferred from his silence that he agreed." |
It is a common mistake to use "infer" when "imply" is meant, or vice versa. Remember:
The speaker or writer implies.
The listener or reader infers.
Summary
While "imply" and "infer" are closely related in that they both involve communication and understanding, they describe opposite sides of the process. The person giving information may imply something, while the person receiving it may infer a meaning from what was said or written. Using these words correctly will help you communicate more precisely and avoid misunderstandings.
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