inebriated
What does "inebriated" mean?
Inebriated is a formal term used to describe someone who is under the influence of alcohol. While the word itself sounds clinical or sophisticated, the state it describes is simply being drunk or intoxicated. The mental image is of someone whose speech, coordination, and judgment have been noticeably impaired by drinking. Because of its formal tone, you will rarely hear this word in casual conversation at a bar. Instead, it is commonly found in news reports, police statements, or legal documents to maintain an objective and professional distance when describing an individual's condition.
"inebriated" in conversation
Police report
The suspect appeared visibly inebriated when we arrived at the scene.
The suspect appeared visibly intoxicated when we arrived at the scene.
Did he have trouble standing?
Did he have trouble standing?
Used here in a professional, legal context.
Formal dinner party
I believe our host has become rather inebriated.
I believe our host has had too much to drink.
Yes, he should probably stop pouring the wine.
Yes, he should probably stop pouring the wine.
Using the word in a formal setting to be polite or discreet.
"inebriated" in a sentence
He was too inebriated to drive home safely.
He was too drunk to drive home safely.
The report stated that the driver was inebriated at the time of the collision.
The report stated that the driver was intoxicated at the time of the collision.
Despite his inebriated state, he attempted to deliver a coherent toast to the wedding guests.
Despite his intoxicated state, he attempted to deliver a coherent toast to the wedding guests.
