Inchoate
mediumNeutral tonein-KOH-it
adjective
Definition
Just begun; not fully formed or developed
Memory hook
IN-CHO-ATE: just beginning to CHOKE into existence — not yet fully formed.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The startup had only an inchoate business plan when it first launched.”
“His ideas about climate policy were still inchoate and needed further refinement.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The startup had only an ______ business plan when it first launched.”
Show answer
inchoate
Categories
GRE Tip
Inchoate is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "nascent" or "embryonic" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "mature".
Related GRE Words
embryonic
In an early stage of development; rudimentary
emergent
In the process of coming into being or becoming prominent
incipient
In an initial stage; beginning to happen or develop
nascent
Just beginning to develop; emerging
inert
lacking the power to move or act; sluggish or chemically inactive
precocious
showing mature qualities at an unusually early age
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