Question

Match the dictionary definitions of the word "Infer" with its correct usage:
[A.] To derive by reasoning or implication
[B.] To surmise
[C.] To point out
[D.] To hint Usage:
[E.] We see smoke and infer fire
[F.] Given some utterance, a listener may infer from it all sorts of things which neither the utterance nor the utterer implied
[G.] I waited all day to meet him. From this you can infer my zeal to see him.
[H.] She did not take part in the debate except to ask a question inferring that she was not interested in the debate. \bigskip

• A. A–F; B–C; E–C; H–D–F
• B. A–F; B–H; C–E; D–G
• C. A–H; B–G; C–F; D–E
• D. A–E; B–F; C–G; D–H
  \bigskip

Hint:

Match meanings to subtle tone and inference style in usage. Think critically about what is explicitly said vs. implicitly suggested.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

A (To derive by reasoning) matches with E: “We see smoke and infer fire” — classic deduction.
B (To surmise) matches with F: inferring things not directly implied.
C (To point out) matches with G: expressing an emotion through implication.
D (To hint) matches with H: subtly expressing disinterest. \[ \boxed{\text{A–E;\quad B–F;\quad C–G;\quad D–H}} \] \bigskip