When should I use imply and infer?

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When should I use imply and infer?

The words "imply" and "infer" are often confused because they are related and used in similar contexts, but they have different meanings and functions.

"Imply" is a verb that means to suggest or indicate something indirectly or without explicitly stating it. It is used when someone is hinting at or suggesting something without directly saying it. For example, if someone says, "She didn't invite me to her party," it implies that the speaker feels left out or excluded.

On the other hand, "infer" is also a verb, but it means to deduce or conclude something based on evidence or reasoning. It is used when someone is making an educated guess or drawing a logical conclusion from the information presented. For instance, if someone says, "She didn't invite me to her party, so I infer that she doesn't want me there."

In summary, "imply" is used when someone is suggesting something indirectly, while "infer" is used when someone is drawing a conclusion based on evidence or reasoning.