Imply vs Infer

To ______ is to hint at something without directly saying it.

• imply

• infer

To _____ is to figure out something that has not been directly said.

• imply

• infer

As its name (implies/infers), the frillneck lizard is famous for the frills, or skin flaps, around its head. To scare off predators, the lizard will rise up on its hind legs, open its mouth, and extend its frills in a terrifying display.

Which is the correct word?

Of course, that's not all this lizard can do. Frilled lizards are masterful hunters, lying in wait in trees to ambush their prey. Insects like ants and termites are their favorite meals, and they also eat spiders, other lizards, and small mammals. As you have surely (implied / inferred), "Dr. Frillneck" would make an unforgettable supervillain.

Which is the correct word?

If you wrinkle your nose and ask Liz, "How can you eat those?" you are ​ ​ (a)   that the chips are gross. Liz will ​​ (b)   that you don't like these chips.

• implying
• infer

Laura yawned loudly and looked at her watch. She wanted to _______ to her guests that it was late and they should go home.

• Infer

• Imply

Mike looked at his failing quiz grades and ​ (a)   he needed to study really hard for the final.

• inferred
• implied

Steven stopped answering Carolina’s texts, trying to ​ (a)   that he didn’t want to talk to her anymore.

• imply
• infer

Brad gave Susanna flowers and asked what she was doing Friday night, _________ he wanted to go on a date with her.

• implying

• inferring

When her aunt asked whether she ever wanted kids, Catalina burst out laughing. Her aunt ​ (a)   her answer was no.

• inferred
• implied