Incur

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkɜː/

Definitions

  1. To become subject to something undesirable or unwanted as a result of one's own actions
  2. To bring about a liability or obligation to oneself through one’s own conduct or decisions
  3. To acquire a responsibility or risk typically due to personal choices or behavior

Etymology: The term "incur" traces its origins back to the Latin verb "incurrere," which means "to run into" or "to fall upon." This Latin term is a compound of the prefix "in-" meaning "upon" or "into," and "currere," which translates as "to run." The concept encapsulated in the original Latin invokes the image of running headlong into something, whether it be an obligation, a debt, or a consequence. This vivid imagery reflects the way the word has evolved, suggesting a sense of actively bringing upon oneself something unwelcome or undesirable. In English, "incur" made its entrance during the late Middle Ages, likely in the 15th century, as it became a part of the growing legal and financial lexicon. The first recorded use of the term appears in texts where it was associated with the assumption of financial obligations or liabilities. One of the earliest instances can be found in legal documents and writings, where individuals would "incur" debts through their actions or agreements. This legal context helped solidify its meaning in English as something one takes on, especially with a connotation of responsibility or consequence. Over time, the term has broadened to encompass a variety of contexts beyond finance, including legal and social ramifications. For instance, one might incur a penalty for a wrongdoing or incur the ire of a superior through missteps. This evolution reflects a shift from a purely financial interpretation to a more general acceptance of the term in relation to any negative outcome that arises from one’s actions. Today, the essence of "incur" remains tied to its roots, suggesting a proactive engagement with consequences—be they debts, penalties, or risks. The term evokes a sense of inevitability, as if one is running toward an inevitable outcome, underscoring the weight of personal responsibility that is ever-present in our choices.

Synonyms: suffer, experience

Antonyms: avoid, evade