The spelling of the word "inchoate" is not necessarily intuitive. It is pronounced as [ɪnˈkəʊeɪt] and is spelled with the unusual combination of "ch" and "oa". The "ch" represents the /k/ sound, while the "oa" represents the /oʊ/ diphthong. Additionally, the "e" at the end is silent, and the stress falls on the second syllable. Despite its spelling challenges, the word "inchoate" is a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary, meaning "just begun and not fully formed or developed."
Inchoate is an adjective that refers to something that is not fully developed or completed. It describes a state of incompleteness or immaturity. When used to describe a concept or idea, it suggests that it is just beginning and lacks the necessary elements for it to be considered fully realized.
In legal contexts, inchoate specifically refers to acts or crimes that have been initiated but have not yet been fully executed. It denotes actions or behaviors that are incomplete and have not reached their intended or desired outcomes. Examples of inchoate crimes include attempted murder or conspiracy, which involve planning and preparation for a crime but have not been carried out to their final stages.
In general usage, inchoate can describe various things such as thoughts, plans, or actions that are in a preliminary or rudimentary stage. It suggests a lack of organization, structure, or coherence. For instance, an artist's inchoate sketches might contain rough outlines and basic shapes but lack the intricate details and finishing touches.
Additionally, inchoate can be used to describe emotions or feelings that have not fully developed or are not fully formed. It signifies a sense of uncertainty, ambiguity, or indecisiveness.
Overall, inchoate conveys the notion of something being in an early or incomplete stage, highlighting its lack of maturity or finality.
• Begun; entered upon; incipient.
• To begin; to commence.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "inchoate" originated from the Latin word "inchoare", which means "to begin". It later transformed into the Latin word "inchoatus", which translates as "inchoate" or "unuttered". The term was first used in English in the mid-17th century, adopting the meaning of something that is not fully formed or developed.