Incur

Definition

To become subject to (something unwelcome or unpleasant) as a result of one's own behavior or actions.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkɜr/
• Respelling: in-KUR (with "in" as in "tin" and "KUR" as in "fur")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkɜː/
• Respelling: in-KUR (with "in" as in "tin" and "KUR" as in "fur")

In both dialects, "incur" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "KUR." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-KUR."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "incurrere" which means "to run into or upon". It's a combination of "in-" (towards) + "currere" (to run).

Derivatives

• Incurred (verb, past tense)
• Incurring (verb, present participle)
• Incurrence (noun)
• Incurable (adjective)
• Incurrable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Acquire
• Obtain
• Sustain

Antonyms

• Avoid
• Evade
• Shun

Usage

"Incur" is often used in financial and legal contexts to describe the acquisition of debts, liabilities, or expenses due to certain actions.

Related Terms

• Expense
• Liability
• Charge
• Cost
• Debt

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Incur (Verb, Financial): To acquire or bring upon oneself a liability or expense.
  • Example: "The company incurred significant expenses due to the equipment upgrade."

• Incur (Verb, General): To become subject to something unwelcome or unpleasant as a result of one's actions.
  • Example: "By ignoring the warnings, he incurred the wrath of his superiors."

• Incur (Verb, Legal): To become liable or subject to a penalty or legal obligation.
  • Example: "She incurred a penalty for late submission of her taxes."

Note: The term "incur" generally connotes an acquisition of something undesirable or unwelcome, usually as a direct result of one's own actions or decisions.