Entail Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”—
Add to dictionary

entail

[ษชnหˆteษชl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in linguistics

To entail means to involve something as a necessary or inevitable part or consequence. In linguistics, it refers to a relationship between sentences where the truth of one requires the truth of the other.

Synonyms

involve, necessitate, require.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
entail

Used when talking about something that is a natural part of or a consequence of something else, often implying a set of responsibilities or tasks.

  • The job will entail a lot of traveling
  • Building a house entails a significant amount of planning and hard work
involve

Used when something includes or requires something as a necessary part or result.

  • The new project will involve working late hours
  • Getting a degree involves a lot of hard work
necessitate

Used in formal situations to describe something that makes a particular action or thing necessary.

  • The broken window necessitated an immediate repair
  • Bad weather necessitates a change of plans
require

Used when something is needed or compulsory, often in a direct and straightforward manner.

  • The job requires a high level of expertise
  • The rules require that all players wear safety gear

Examples of usage

  • The first statement entails the second one.
  • If A entails B, then B is true whenever A is true.
Context #2 | Verb

in legal terms

In legal terms, to entail means to restrict the inheritance of (property) to a specified line of heirs.

Synonyms

designate, limit, restrict.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
entail

Use when describing a situation where something involves or requires something else as a necessary condition or consequence.

  • Building a successful business entails a lot of hard work and dedication
  • The project entails significant financial investment
restrict

Use when imposing rules or conditions that control or limit people's actions or movements, often in a more severe or formal way, with a slightly negative connotation.

  • Access to the area is restricted to authorized personnel only
  • The school restricted students from using their phones during class
limit

Use when setting a boundary or restriction on something, especially to minimize or control it.

  • You should limit your sugar intake for better health
  • The speed limit on this road is 60 miles per hour
designate

Use when assigning a name, role, or title to someone or something, often formally.

  • She was designated as the team leader for the project
  • The area was designated as a wildlife reserve

Examples of usage

  • The estate was entailed to the eldest son.
  • She inherited the entailed property.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'entail'

The word 'entail' originated from the Old French word 'entailer', which meant 'to cut into' or 'to notch'. The term was originally used in a legal context to refer to the restriction of property inheritance. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the idea of involving something as a necessary consequence, as seen in its use in linguistics.


See also: entailment.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,593 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.