inference
    n 1: the reasoning involved in drawing a conclusion or making a
         logical judgment on the basis of circumstantial evidence
         and prior conclusions rather than on the basis of direct
         observation [syn: inference, illation]

Inference \In"fer*ence\, n. [From Infer.]
   [1913 Webster]
   1. The act or process of inferring by deduction or induction.
      [1913 Webster]

            Though it may chance to be right in the conclusions,
            it is yet unjust and mistaken in the method of
            inference.                            --Glanvill.
      [1913 Webster]

   2. That which inferred; a truth or proposition drawn from
      another which is admitted or supposed to be true; a
      conclusion; a deduction. --Milton.
      [1913 Webster]

            These inferences, or conclusions, are the effects of
            reasoning, and the three propositions, taken all
            together, are called syllogism, or argument. --I.
                                                  Watts.

   Syn: Conclusion; deduction; consequence.

   Usage: Inference, Conclusion. An inference is literally
          that which is brought in; and hence, a deduction or
          induction from premises, -- something which follows as
          certainly or probably true. A conclusion is stronger
          than an inference; it shuts us up to the result, and
          terminates inquiry. We infer what is particular or
          probable; we conclude what is certain. In a chain of
          reasoning we have many inferences, which lead to the
          ultimate conclusion. "An inference is a proposition
          which is perceived to be true, because of its
          connection with some known fact." "When something is
          simply affirmed to be true, it is called a
          proposition; after it has been found to be true by
          several reasons or arguments, it is called a
          conclusion." --I. Taylor.
          [1913 Webster]

inference

    The logical process by which new facts are derived
   from known facts by the application of inference rules.

   See also symbolic inference, type inference.

   (1995-03-20)

INFERENCE. A conclusion drawn by reason from premises established by proof. 
     2. It is the province of the judge who is to decide upon the facts to 
draw the inference. When the facts are submitted to the court, the judges 
draw the inference; when they are to be ascertained by a jury, it is their 
duty to do so. The witness is not permitted as a general rule to draw an 
inference, and testify that to the court or jury. It is his duty to state 
the facts simply as they occurred. Inferences differ from presumptions.
(q.v.)