Illation

Illation

əˈlāSHən

Noun

  • The action of inferring or drawing a conclusion.
  • An inference.

Get a new word in your inbox every day.

By subscribing you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Example Sentences

“The board game Clue depends on players drawing illations based on the revealed evidence.”

“We came to the illation that Tim wasn’t going to join us after he postponed three times.”

“The detective’s astute illation helped authorities close the case.”

Word Origin

Latin, mid-16th century

Why this word?

Sherlock Holmes claimed to be a master of deduction, but he could also have called himself an expert of illation. “Illation” comes from the Latin root “illat-,” meaning “brought in,” and the root comes comes from the verb “inferre,” meaning to “bring in, bring about.” In medieval Latin, “inferre” meant “deduce.” For someone looking for clues, we’ll be more clear: “Illation,” “inference,” and “deduction” are synonyms. They all refer to the process of drawing a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning.

  • More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    More brands you’ll love

    Elevate Your Everyday

    Subscribe to Better Report to receive tips and tricks that will save you money, maximize your time, and improve your life.

    Subscribe to Better Report
    By clicking “Subscribe” you’re agreeing to Better Report Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Learn a new word Surfeit

ˈsərfət