Entail vs Imply

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 EntailImply
Meaningto involve or include something as a necessary partTo suggest something without saying it directly.
Registerformal-
CEFR levelB1B2
Part of speechverb
Usage notesUsed mainly in academic and formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversation.Use 'imply' when you want to indicate something indirectly. It’s more appropriate in formal writing and discussions. Avoid using it in very casual contexts.

Frequently asked questions: Entail vs Imply

What's the difference between "Entail" and "Imply"?

"Entail" means: to involve or include something as a necessary part "Imply" means: To suggest something without saying it directly.

When should I use "Entail" and "Imply"?

"Entail" is formal.

Are "Entail" and "Imply" the same CEFR level?

"Entail" is at B1, "Imply" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.

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