Translation guide
To conclude something based on evidence and reasoning rather than direct statement. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with verbs like 推測する, 推論する, or phrases like 察する. The choice depends on formality, the strength of the conclusion, and whether it's based on logic or intuition.
To reach a conclusion by thinking logically about known facts or information.
The most general and neutral word for 'infer'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese for drawing a conclusion from available information.
彼の表情から、何かあったと推測した。
I inferred from his expression that something had happened.
More formal and logical than 推測する. Often used in academic or technical contexts for inference based on systematic reasoning.
データから因果関係を推論した。
We inferred a causal relationship from the data.
To sense or infer something from subtle cues, often about someone's feelings or situation. Implies empathy and intuition rather than strict logic.
彼の気持ちを察して、何も言わなかった。
I inferred his feelings and didn't say anything.
Often used in legal, scientific, or statistical contexts for estimation or presumption based on evidence. Can overlap with 'infer' but leans toward 'estimate'.
遺留品から犯人の身長を推定した。
They inferred the suspect's height from the belongings left behind.
To understand an implied meaning that is not directly stated.
Literally 'read between the lines'. A common phrase for inferring unstated meaning from context or nuance.
彼のメールの行間を読むと、本当は反対なんだと思う。
Reading between the lines of his email, I think he's actually against it.
To grasp the implied meaning beyond the words. More explicit than 行間を読む.
彼女の言外の意味を読み取るのは難しかった。
It was difficult to infer what she really meant.
To reach a conclusion when direct proof is lacking, often using deduction.
A general word for 'judge' or 'conclude'. In context, it can mean inferring based on available information.
状況から判断して、彼はもう来ないだろう。
Judging from the situation, I infer he won't come anymore.
To draw a conclusion. Often used when the inference is the final step of reasoning.
証拠から彼が犯人だと結論づけた。
From the evidence, they inferred that he was the culprit.
推測する is based on logical reasoning from facts, while 察する is more intuitive and empathetic, often about someone's unspoken feelings. Use 察する when you 'sense' something without explicit evidence.
データから売上を推測する。
Infer sales from the data.
彼の沈黙から怒りを察する。
Infer his anger from his silence.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'infer'. Using 推測する is safe for most cases, but in casual conversation, simpler phrases like 〜と思う (I think) or 〜だろう (probably) are often more natural than explicitly saying 'infer'.
彼の行動から何を推測しますか？
What do you infer from his behavior?
彼女は不満だと察した。
I inferred that she was unhappy.