entail
What does "entail" mean?
To entail something is to make it a necessary consequence or a required part of a situation. Think of it as a logical "package deal"—when you commit to a certain action or event, you are also signing up for everything that inevitably follows it, whether you like it or not. In professional or academic contexts, "entail" is used to describe the unavoidable costs or responsibilities of a decision. It is more precise than "involve" because it emphasizes that the outcome is an inseparable, inherent part of the primary action. You will often hear it used with "risks," "costs," or "responsibilities."
"entail" in conversation
Discussing a new job offer
The salary is great, but what does the role actually entail?
The salary is great, but what does the role actually entail?
It entails a lot of travel and weekend meetings.
It entails a lot of travel and weekend meetings.
Used here to ask about the specific duties that come with a job.
Planning a home renovation
I want to knock down this wall.
I want to knock down this wall.
Just remember, that entails rewiring the entire electrical system.
Just remember, that entails rewiring the entire electrical system.
Highlights that the renovation is not a simple task because of the necessary secondary work.
"entail" in a sentence
This decision entails a significant financial risk.
This decision entails a significant financial risk.
Greater freedom often entails greater responsibility for one's actions.
Greater freedom often entails greater responsibility for one's actions.
The proposed merger entails complex legal negotiations that could span several months.
The proposed merger entails complex legal negotiations that could span several months.
