inferire

Inferire is a transitive Italian verb that denotes the act of deriving a conclusion from data, evidence, or a series of observations. It expresses a deduction based on reasoning rather than a direct assertion. In everyday language it is less common than synonyms such as dedurre or desumere, but it appears frequently in academic, scientific, and philosophical writing where careful inference is important.

Etymology: the word comes from the Latin inferre, formed with in- meaning “into” and ferre meaning “to bear, carry.” The figurative development of bringing a conclusion forward from observed facts lies behind the modern Italian sense of inferring.

Usage and meaning: inferire is typically used with constructions like “Dalle prove si può inferire che…” or “L’analisi inferisce una correlazione.” It implies a conclusion that follows from the given evidence, rather than a fixed or certain statement. Phrases such as “si può inferire” or “è lecito inferire” convey probability or hypothesis rather than absoluteness.

Limits and style: in formal or technical discourse, inferire helps articulate a logical consequence drawn from data, observations, or arguments. In less formal communication, speakers often substitute dedurre or desumere, which can feel more direct or commonplace. The choice of inferire signals a cautious, evidence-based reasoning, typical of analytical writing, research reports, and scholarly discussion.