Understanding the Difference
"Inferring" and "inferencing" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings.
- Inferring is the process of reaching a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning. It's the act of drawing an inference, a conclusion that is not explicitly stated but can be logically derived from the available information.
- Inferencing is the act of making inferences, the process of drawing conclusions from evidence. It's the action of inferring, the process itself.
Examples
- Inferring: You see someone carrying an umbrella and wearing a raincoat. You infer that it is likely raining outside.
- Inferencing: You are reading a detective novel and inferencing the identity of the killer based on clues and the author's hints.
Practical Insights
- Inferring is a cognitive process, while inferencing is the action of that process.
- Inferring is about the conclusion you reach, while inferencing is about the process of reaching that conclusion.
Conclusion
In essence, "inferring" is the result, the conclusion you arrive at, while "inferencing" is the process of reaching that conclusion.
