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Incipient Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incipient

[ษชnหˆsษชpiษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in development

in an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop

Synonyms

beginning, developing, emerging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incipient

Used when describing something in its initial stage, often indicating that a more significant development is likely to follow.

  • The incipient signs of the disease were not immediately recognized.
  • Her incipient interest in art started with a single painting class.
beginning

Commonly used to describe the start of something, whether a process, period, or action. It is a more general term and is widely applicable.

  • The beginning of the book was a bit slow, but it soon became exciting.
  • We're at the beginning of a new project and have many tasks ahead.
emerging

Appropriate when describing something that is becoming more visible or known. It often implies that the subject was previously hidden or unknown.

  • Emerging technologies are changing the way we live and work.
  • New trends in fashion are emerging every season.
developing

Best used when something is in progress and continuously evolving. It suggests that there are ongoing changes and improvements.

  • The developing relationship between the two characters added depth to the story.
  • This is a developing situation, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Examples of usage

  • an incipient economic recovery
  • the incipient stages of the disease
Context #2 | Adjective

about to happen

about to come into existence

Synonyms

forthcoming, impending, looming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incipient

Same as the first entry for 'incipient' since it means the same thing.

  • The incipient stages of the dispute were marked by rising tensions
  • His incipient interest in painting blossomed into a full-fledged passion
impending

Appropriate for situations when something bad or threatening is about to happen soon.

  • The dark clouds signified the impending storm
  • She felt a sense of dread about the impending examination results
forthcoming

Best used when talking about something that is about to happen in the near future and often when specific details or information are already available.

  • The forthcoming book by this author is eagerly awaited by the fans
  • We were briefed about the forthcoming changes in the project structure
looming

Typically used to describe something negative or threatening that appears likely to happen soon.

  • The looming deadline was causing everyone to work overtime
  • There was a sense of doom due to the looming economic crisis

Examples of usage

  • an incipient revolution
  • the incipient danger of war

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, 'incipient' refers to early stages of development, such as the initial phase of cell growth.
  • Weather patterns can be described as incipient when they show early signs of developing storms.
  • In technology, an incipient innovation may refer to a concept that is still in ideation but shows potential for growth.

Psychology

  • Early signs of emotional or behavioral changes are often referred to as incipient symptoms.
  • Therapists may look for incipient signs of an issue during counseling to help address problems before they escalate.
  • The concept of incipient fear can describe the initial feelings of anxiety before it becomes overwhelming.

Literature

  • In literary analysis, incipient themes are those that are beginning to emerge in a narrative but are not fully developed.
  • Authors may use incipient plots, where the storyline starts to unfold gradually, keeping readers intrigued.
  • Classic literature often explores characters in their incipient stages of growth and self-discovery.

Cultural References

  • In folklore, incipient hero journeys often depict characters just beginning their path to greatness.
  • Music genres often go through incipient stages, evolving from simple melodies to complex compositions over time.
  • Fashion trends can start as incipient styles before they become mainstream, evolving from niche to popular.

Origin of 'incipient'

Main points about word origin

  • Originates from the Latin word 'incipiens', meaning 'beginning' or 'commencing'.
  • The root 'capere' in Latin means 'to take', linking the word to the act of beginning to take form.
  • The term has been used in English since the early 19th century, emphasizing the start of an event or process.

The word 'incipient' comes from the Latin word 'incipiens', which means 'beginning'. It has been used in the English language since the 17th century. The term is often used to describe something that is in the early stages of development or about to happen.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,262, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.