What is another word for abductive inference?
Pronunciation: [ɐbdˈʌktɪv ˈɪnfəɹəns] (IPA) 
Abductive inference can also be referred to as abductive reasoning, inference to the best explanation, or retroductive reasoning. In logical and philosophical contexts, it is sometimes known as inference to the best hypothesis. These terms all describe the process of arriving at plausible explanations or hypotheses based on incomplete or uncertain information. Other synonyms that may describe similar processes include speculative reasoning, heuristic reasoning, or guesswork. While these terms have different connotations and are used in slightly different contexts, they all describe ways of reasoning that are important tools for researchers, scientists, and others seeking to understand the world around us.
