entail - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
entail Word Meanings
- to involve as a necessary part
- to require
- to impose a burden or requirement
entail Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
entail Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈteɪl/
US
/ɪnˈteɪl/
entail Word Etymology
en- = make, tail = to cover; Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a house being built to entail a garden—both must coexist, like a home holds a property.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Entail is a verb meaning to involve as a necessary part, to require, or to impose a burden or obligation. It is common in formal writing, contracts, and logical discussion, where one outcome or condition necessarily follows from another. You might say that a job offer entails a probation period, or that a policy entails higher costs for implementing it. Entail often appears with nouns like cost, duty, risk, or burden, signaling that something cannot be avoided or skipped. It is stronger than simply including or involving; it marks a required consequence that must hold if the first part is true.
Usage Reminders
- • Use entail for strong, necessary consequences.
- • Pair with costs, obligations, or duties.
- • Do not confuse with imply or involve in casual speech.
- • Common in legal and formal writing.
- • Entail often appears with the subject that must occur.
- • Remember: if X happens, Y will entail.
Common Misconceptions
- Entail is the same as imply; they are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Something that entails something else is optional or merely possible.
- Entail only refers to nouns, not actions or events.
- Entail means 'include' but never 'require'.
- Legal jargon use entail only in contract language; ordinary speech does not.
Thinking Differences
English tends to distinguish entailment from imply or involve by stressing necessity and consequence; learners often overuse involve for strict outcomes or confuse imply with entail in legal contexts.
Learning Tips
- Read contract or policy sentences to spot entailment phrases.
- Match entail with nouns like cost, burden, obligation.
- Contrast entail with imply and involve in examples.
- Practice logical arguments where one statement entails another.
- Use flashcards for common collocations: entail a cost, entail obligations.
- Write 2-3 sentences daily using entail in formal contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'entail'?
A.Laugh
B.Jump
C.Involve
D.Sleep
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'entail' used correctly?
A.She decided to entail a risky adventure.
B.He ain't going to entail the truth.
C.Entail me your secret.
D.The project will entail a lot of hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'entail'?
A.Exclude
B.Encompass
C.Destroy
D.Brief
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'entail'?
A.Imply
B.Precede
C.Require
D.Omit
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'entail' in a real-life situation?
A.I realized that starting a new business will entail a lot of financial risks.
B.I love to entail my favorite book during the weekends.
C.I prefer not to entail in any social activities.
D.Should we entail the plan for the party together?
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App