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Evolution of Language: Infer and Imply

It is always interesting to me to watch the evolution of language. A good example I've run into a couple of times already today is "infer" vs "imply". Historically, these words have had very different meanings. An inference denotes a conclusion you draw from observed data. An implication is encouragement to others to draw an inference from data you have provided…

These days, "imply" seems to be pretty much dead. It has been largely replaced by "infer". You often hear the phrase "What are you inferring?" now. As I'm old, that means something completely different to me than it does to language newbs.

I'm not against language evolution in general. One might as well be against gravity. I think an important distinction is being lost here. However, apparently it's more important to me than to most of the public. Such is life.

Now that I've pointed it out, though, listen for "infer" and "imply" in daily conversations and watch for them in print. I'd be curious to hear if you infer the change I'm implying (ok, claiming) exists. Friend of Bart

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infer vs imply

Could you please clarify: 1.An inference denotes a conclusion you draw from observed data 2.An implication is encouragement to others to draw an inference from data you have provided… I feel that there is no difference between "observed data" and "data you have provided." For example; if I observe some data and I provide that same data to you. Then basically you are hypothetically receiving two types of data which actually are the same.

  • By Anonymous (not verified) at 2009-11-26 04:39
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infer and imply switch object and subject

Sorry, let me try again. When I imply something, I am encouraging you to draw an inference. When I infer something, it may be because you implied it. The subject and object basically switch.

The Merriam-Webster entry for infer has an interesting etymological discussion, though, that basically says I and others who make this distinction are probably full of it. Should have looked at that sooner. Friend of Bart

  • By Bart at 2009-11-26 21:02
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