necessary inference

A necessary inference is a conclusion that must be true if the fact or premise from which it is drawn is true. In other words, the conclusion logically follows from the stated premise and cannot reasonably be otherwise. For example, if the premise “all men are mortal” is true, the conclusion that “some men are mortal” necessarily follows. See also: inference.

[Last reviewed in April of 2026 by the Wex Definitions Team

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