Syn. -- Conclusion; deduction; consequence. -- 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.
In`fer*en"tial (?), a. Deduced or deducible by inference. "Inferential
proofs." J. S. Mill.
In`fer*en"tial*ly, adv. By way of inference.
||In*fe"ri*æ (?), n. pl. [L., fr. inferus underneath.] (Rom. Antiq.)
||Sacrifices offered to the souls of deceased heroes or friends.
||
In*fe"ri*or (?), a. [L., compar. of inferus that is below, underneath,
the lower; akin to E. under: cf. F. inférieur. See Under.]
1. Lower in place, rank, excellence, etc.; less important or valuable;
subordinate; underneath; beneath.
A thousand inferior and particular propositions.