Infer vs. Imply

Ladies and gentlemen, we're about to discuss the differences and similarities between 'infer' and 'imply'. Shall we proceed, then?

What Is Their Main Difference?

Their only similarity is that they are both verbs. We use 'infer' when we are drawing a conclusion, but 'imply' is used when we say something indirectly.

Differences

As mentioned above, 'infer' mainly comes when we want to state a conclusion. Look at the following examples:

So, based on your assumptions, we can infer that the moon will be destroyed in the near future.

I inferred that the professor would notify me when the deadline is near.

'Imply', on the other hand, refers to saying something without actually saying it. We basically say it indirectly. Check out the following examples:

Through her body language, she implied that she felt anxious and awkward.

The professor didn't say what I wanted him to say, but he implied that he has my back.

Similarities

The only similarity between these two words is their grammatical functions. They are both verbs. Look:

So you're saying that the whole class inferred that the seminar was cancelled today?

When did I imply that I'm not interested in you?

Are They Interchangeable?

As it is clear, these two are completely different and they can never be used interchangeably. Compare:

✓ Angelina inferred that her boyfriend wasn't simply interested in her.

Here, it means that Angelina has drawn a conclusion.

✓ Angelina implied that her boyfriend wasn't simply interested in her.

In this example, it means that Angelina has said something indirectly.

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