What is the difference between inference and hypothesis?

To begin with, it makes sense you'd ask about this difference. These two things have much in common, including that they both refer to philosophical viewpoints used as tools in the search for truth. And flaws aside, both have served us well. read more

The difference between “inference” and “hypothesis” is that hypothesis suggests you are just starting to explore the facts. A hypothesis is followed by research and experimentation, leading to a conclusion. read more

A hypothesis is a theory based from observations. Hypotheses generally haven't been tested, they are merely an explanation derived from available observations. An inference is a conclusion obtained not through observable facts, but rather through observable trends. read more

1. a proposition, or set of propositions, set forth as an explanation for the occurrence of some specified group of phenomena, either asserted merely as a provisional conjecture to guide investigation (working hypothesis) or accepted as highly probable in the light of established facts. 2. a proposition assumed as a premise in an argument. read more