infer

/ɪnˈfɜr/
verb
  1. To reach a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning rather than direct statement.
    • Scientists infer the age of fossils by studying the surrounding rock layers.
    • From the muddy footprints, we can infer that someone entered through the back door.
    • The detective inferred the thief's identity from the clues left at the scene.
  2. To hint or suggest indirectly; to imply (sometimes considered a less formal or disputed usage).
    • Are you inferring that I made a mistake?
    • His tone seemed to infer that he was unhappy with the decision.
    • The article infers that the company is hiding something.