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inculcate

Verb

IPA /ˈɪnkʌlkeɪt/

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Meaning in plain English

To teach an idea, value or habit through repeated instruction or practice.

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Pronunciation

inculcate/ˈɪnkʌlkeɪt/

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Follow the idea

A value or habit is taught
It is reinforced repeatedly
It becomes firmly established

To inculcate a habit is to teach and reinforce it over time.

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Examples in context

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Her parents tried to inculcate a respect for nature.
The course aims to inculcate careful research habits in new students.

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Her parents tried to ________ a respect for nature.

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inculcate — To teach an idea, value or habit through repeated instruction or practice.

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To teach an idea, value or habit through repeated instruction or practice.

Compare: Her parents tried to inculcate a respect for nature.

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Word origin

From Latin inculcare, meaning to press in or tread upon.

Did you know?

Inculcate something in someone is a useful pattern for describing repeated teaching.

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