inevitable

UK: ɪnˈevɪtəbl | US: ɪnˈevɪtəbl

Definition

  1. adj. impossible to avoid or prevent

  2. adj. certain to happen; unavoidable

Structure
in <not>evit <avoid>able <capable of>
Etymology

inevitable = in<not> + evit<avoid> + able<capable of>

  • in-: Prefix meaning "not" (from Latin in-).
  • evit-: Root derived from Latin evitare ("to avoid"), from e- (out) + vitare (to shun).
  • -able: Suffix meaning "capable of" (from Latin -abilis).

Etymology Origin:
The word "inevitable" traces back to Latin inevitabilis, combining in- (negation) + evitare (to avoid). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of "unavoidable." The root vitare (to shun) also appears in "evade," highlighting a shared logic of avoidance. Over time, "inevitable" evolved to emphasize certainty, reflecting inevitability as an inescapable force.

Examples

  1. The rise of technology seems inevitable in modern society.

  2. Despite their efforts, conflict was inevitable.

  3. Death is the only inevitable part of life.

  4. The team’s victory felt inevitable after their strong performance.

  5. Change is inevitable; growth is optional.