Definition

To come to a conclusion based on reasoning or evidence; to figure something out by thinking logically about it.

Example

From the clues left at the scene, the detective was able to deduce what had happened.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was trying to deduce why the snack machine is empty again.

Maybe people are just really hungry today!

Yeah, but I deduce that it might be broken, too.

That would explain why no one has refilled it lately.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deduce is formed from "de-" (meaning down from or away) and "ducere" (meaning to lead). The word means to lead down from a general principle to a specific conclusion, or to infer something based on reasoning.

Memory Tip

Think of leading down from a general idea ('de-') to a specific conclusion ('ducere') — that's how deducing works.

Visually Confused Words