What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
infer
Example
From the tone of his voice, I can infer that he's upset. [infer: verb]
Example
Based on the data we have, we can infer that the economy is improving. [infer: verb]
Example
The article doesn't say it directly, but we can infer that the author supports the new policy. [infer: verb]
surmise
Example
I can only surmise what happened since I wasn't there. [surmise: verb]
Example
Based on his behavior, I surmise that he's hiding something. [surmise: verb]
Example
Her surmise about the outcome of the election turned out to be incorrect. [surmise: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Infer is more commonly used than surmise in academic or technical contexts, while surmise is more common in everyday conversation. Both words are used in writing and speech, but infer is more versatile and can be used in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between infer and surmise?
Infer is more formal and commonly used in academic or technical contexts, while surmise is more informal and used in everyday conversation.
