B1 formal 3K

Entail

UK //ɪnˈteɪl// US //ɪnˈteɪl// Pronunciation

Definition

To include something as a necessary part or consequence.

Listen to definition

In simple words: to involve or include something as a necessary part

Examples

• The project will entail several phases of development.
• This job entails a lot of responsibilities.
• Such changes may entail legal issues.

Usage notes

Used mainly in academic and formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

entail + object

Memory hint

Think of 'entail' as 'in tail' — whatever is in your 'tail' (end) is part of the journey.

Collocations

• entail risks
• entail costs
• entail consequences

Synonyms

• involve
• require
• necessitate
• imply
• mean

Antonyms

• exclude
• omit
• remove

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'contail' — no such word exists.
• Using it in informal contexts where simpler words are better.
• Incorrectly stating 'entail of' instead of 'entail'.