It may be inferred that
Academic essay writing expression
Use it to introduce a logical conclusion based on evidence in formal writing or serious discussions.
En 15 secondes
- A formal way to draw a logical conclusion from evidence.
- Used mainly in academic writing, legal contexts, and professional reports.
- Suggests a smart guess without being 100% certain.
Signification
This phrase is a sophisticated way to say 'based on the evidence, we can conclude that.' It's like being a detective who connects the dots to find a hidden truth.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Writing a university history essay
From the king's sudden departure, it may be inferred that he feared a coup.
Based on the king leaving quickly, we can guess he was afraid of being overthrown.
A business meeting about falling sales
Given the recent data, it may be inferred that our customers prefer the cheaper model.
Looking at the numbers, it seems our customers like the less expensive option more.
Humorous observation of a messy roommate
Seeing as there are five pizza boxes on the floor, it may be inferred that you didn't cook tonight.
Since there's pizza everywhere, I'm guessing you didn't make dinner.
Contexte culturel
This phrase is deeply rooted in the 'Socratic' method of teaching and legal reasoning in the English-speaking world. It reflects a cultural preference for evidence-based conclusions over personal opinions. In high-level English discourse, appearing too certain can actually make your argument look weaker; using 'may' shows intellectual humility.
The 'May' vs 'Can' Secret
Use 'may' if you want to sound more polite and academic. Use 'can' if you feel the evidence is very strong and undeniable.
Don't confuse 'Infer' and 'Imply'
A speaker 'implies' (hints at something). A listener 'infers' (figures it out). You can't say 'It may be implied that' if you are the one doing the thinking!
En 15 secondes
- A formal way to draw a logical conclusion from evidence.
- Used mainly in academic writing, legal contexts, and professional reports.
- Suggests a smart guess without being 100% certain.
What It Means
It may be inferred that is a high-level way of saying 'I’m making a smart guess.' You aren't just pulling an idea out of thin air. Instead, you are looking at facts or clues and drawing a logical conclusion. In the world of logic, to 'infer' is to find the meaning that isn't explicitly stated. If you see someone carrying a wet umbrella, you don't need them to tell you it's raining; you infer it. This phrase adds a layer of professional caution. It says, 'I think this is true, but I’m being careful about how I say it.'
How To Use It
Think of this phrase as a bridge between your evidence and your conclusion. You usually start a sentence with it to introduce a new insight. For example, if a company's profits are down and their best staff are leaving, you might say, It may be inferred that the management is struggling. It’s a great way to sound objective. You aren't saying 'I think'; you're saying 'the facts suggest.' It’s like wearing a digital lab coat while you speak. Use it to point out patterns or results that aren't immediately obvious to everyone else.
When To Use It
This is your go-to phrase for academic essays, business reports, or legal discussions. If you are writing a university paper, this phrase is your best friend. It shows you have critical thinking skills. You can also use it in a serious meeting when you want to suggest a reason for a problem without sounding like you're blaming someone directly. It’s perfect for those 'Sherlock Holmes' moments where you've noticed something small that leads to a big realization.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase in very casual settings unless you are being funny. If you’re at a bar and your friend looks sad, saying It may be inferred that you are having a bad day will make you sound like a robot. It’s way too heavy for texting your mom or chatting about the weather. Also, don't use it if you are 100% certain of a fact. If the sun is shining, don't say it may be inferred that it's daytime—just say it's daytime! It’s for logical leaps, not obvious facts.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from the long tradition of Western formal logic and rhetoric. English academic culture places a high value on 'hedging'—which means not being too aggressive with your claims. Using may instead of is makes you sound more intellectual and open to discussion. It’s a hallmark of the 'polite' intellectualism found in British and American universities. It suggests that you are a person of reason who respects the complexity of the truth.
Common Variations
If you want to mix it up, you can use It can be inferred that for a slightly stronger tone. One might infer that sounds even more formal and a bit old-fashioned. If you want to be more direct, try This suggests that or This implies that. For a more modern, data-driven vibe, people often use The data indicates that. All of these do a similar job, but It may be inferred that remains the gold standard for high-level writing.
Notes d'usage
This phrase is strictly for formal registers. Using it in casual speech will likely be perceived as ironic or overly academic. Always follow 'that' with a complete clause (subject + verb).
The 'May' vs 'Can' Secret
Use 'may' if you want to sound more polite and academic. Use 'can' if you feel the evidence is very strong and undeniable.
Don't confuse 'Infer' and 'Imply'
A speaker 'implies' (hints at something). A listener 'infers' (figures it out). You can't say 'It may be implied that' if you are the one doing the thinking!
The 'Hedging' Culture
English academics love 'hedging'—using words like 'may' or 'perhaps' to avoid sounding arrogant. It's a sign of respect for other researchers' opinions.
Exemples
6From the king's sudden departure, it may be inferred that he feared a coup.
Based on the king leaving quickly, we can guess he was afraid of being overthrown.
This shows the writer is analyzing the king's actions to find a hidden motive.
Given the recent data, it may be inferred that our customers prefer the cheaper model.
Looking at the numbers, it seems our customers like the less expensive option more.
Using this phrase makes the speaker sound like they are making a data-driven observation.
Seeing as there are five pizza boxes on the floor, it may be inferred that you didn't cook tonight.
Since there's pizza everywhere, I'm guessing you didn't make dinner.
The high formality creates a funny contrast with the messy, casual situation.
You haven't replied in three days; it may be inferred that you're either busy or dead.
You're quiet, so I'm guessing you're busy (or something went wrong!).
A playful, slightly dramatic way to point out a friend's silence.
He hasn't called her back; it may be inferred that he isn't interested in a second date.
He hasn't called, so it's likely he doesn't want another date.
Used here to gently suggest a sad reality based on someone's behavior.
Since the plants in the dark died, it may be inferred that sunlight is essential for this species.
Because the plants died without light, we can conclude they need sun.
Standard use in scientific reporting to state a conclusion.
Teste-toi
Choose the best word to complete this formal conclusion.
The suspect's fingerprints were on the safe; it may be ___ that he was involved in the robbery.
'Inferred' is the correct term for drawing a logical conclusion from physical evidence like fingerprints.
Complete the phrase used in academic writing.
It ___ be inferred that the economic policy failed to reach its goals.
'May' is the standard modal verb used in this specific academic expression to show cautious logic.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Spectrum of 'Inferring'
I reckon...
I reckon he's mad.
It looks like...
It looks like he's upset.
This suggests that...
His behavior suggests he is unhappy.
It may be inferred that...
It may be inferred that the subject is dissatisfied.
Where to use 'It may be inferred that'
University Essay
Analyzing a poem's hidden meaning.
Legal Document
Drawing conclusions from witness testimony.
Business Report
Explaining why sales dropped last quarter.
Sarcastic Joke
Pointing out something obvious to a friend.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsTo infer means to reach a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements. It's like reading between the lines.
Usually, no. It's very formal. If you use it with friends, you'll sound like you're reading from a textbook, which might be funny but isn't natural.
Yes, but 'It may be inferred that' is more common in formal writing because it removes 'I,' making the statement sound more objective and less like a personal opinion.
'It seems that' is much more casual and based on a feeling. 'It may be inferred that' implies you have done some serious logical thinking.
Use It can be inferred when the evidence is very clear and there is little room for doubt. 'May' is softer and more cautious.
Absolutely. It is a standard phrase in academic and legal English across the entire English-speaking world.
No, it almost always introduces a clause. You say It may be inferred that [the result]. It acts as a starting point for your conclusion.
People often say It may be inferred from... and then forget the that. Make sure you have a full sentence after the word that.
It depends on the culture of your company. In a law firm or a bank, it's fine. In a tech startup, it might be a bit too stiff.
Not at all. In formal English, using 'may' actually makes you sound more professional because it shows you understand that facts can be interpreted in different ways.
Expressions liées
This suggests that
A slightly less formal way to draw a conclusion.
It follows that
Used when one fact leads naturally and logically to another.
Based on the evidence
A clear way to show where your information is coming from.
One can conclude that
Another formal way to state a final result or opinion.
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