Inchoative

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ɪnˈkəʊ.É™.tɪv/
• US IPA: /ɪnˈkoÊŠÉ™tɪv/

Origin

Latin inchoativus, incohativus: compare French inchoatif.

Full definition of inchoative

Adjective

1. At the beginning, still in an unformed state.
• W. MontaguSome inchoative or imperfect rays.
• 1858, Thomas Carlyle, History Of Friedrich II Of PrussiaOur first Piece is of Winter, or late Autumn, 1771,—while the solution of the Polish Business is still in its inchoative stages; …
2. (grammar) Aspectually indicating that an action is soon to begin.
3. (grammar) Inflected in or relating to the inchoative aspect.

Related terms

• inchoate