Inference
yourdictionary.com states "literary definition of “inference” is more specifically: “Using clues provided by the author to figure things out.” You might use these context clues to figure out things about the characters, setting, or plot. Inferences are an important part of reading comprehension." A reader uses clues the author writes, puts those clues together with background knowledge, and makes an inference. A good way to think about it is:
inference + background knowledge = inference
inference + background knowledge = inference