The word “inculcate” refers to the act of instilling an idea, value, or habit into someone’s mind through persistent teaching, repetition, and reinforcement. It implies a deliberate and methodical effort to ensure that the concept becomes deeply rooted and long-lasting. For example, parents strive to inculcate values like honesty and kindness in their children so they grow up with strong moral character. Educators aim to inculcate a love of learning and critical thinking skills to prepare students for future challenges. In a professional setting, companies may inculcate a sense of discipline and teamwork through ongoing training and mentorship. Similarly, societal norms and traditions are inculcated into individuals from an early age, shaping their behavior and worldview. Whether in education, ethics, or attitudes, to inculcate is to embed something through continuous emphasis and consistent effort.
Sample Sentences
- Parents should inculcate a sense of responsibility and discipline in their children.
- The teacher worked hard to inculcate critical thinking skills in her students.
- Through rigorous practice, the coach sought to inculcate teamwork in the players.
- Good habits, such as punctuality and honesty, must be inculcated early in life.
- The organization aims to inculcate a strong work ethic in all its employees.
- Stories and fables have long been used to inculcate moral lessons in children.
- The workshop was designed to inculcate a deep understanding of safety protocols.
- She inculcated a love for reading in her students by introducing engaging books.
- Religious teachings often inculcate values of kindness, compassion, and humility.
- Leaders should strive to inculcate a culture of trust and respect within their teams.
Synonyms for “Inculcate”
- Instill
- Implant
- Imbue
- Infuse
- Teach
- Indoctrinate
- Foster
- Impress upon
- Embed
- Educate
Antonyms for “Inculcate”
- Remove
- Erase
- Neglect
- Ignore
- Strip
- Deprive
- Eliminate
- Unteach
- Suppress
- Expunge
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Instill
- Teach
- Indoctrinate
- Implant
- Educate
- Imbue
- Foster
- Develop
- Train
- Condition
Phrasal Verbs:
- Hammer into (to inculcate something through persistent repetition)
- Drum into (to teach or inculcate forcefully through repetition)
- Plant in (to inculcate or deeply embed an idea or habit)
- Build up (to gradually inculcate skills or qualities)
- Pass on (to inculcate values or traditions from one generation to another)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Teach someone the ropes (to inculcate knowledge or understanding of a task)
- Old habits die hard (inculcated habits are difficult to change)
- Leave a lasting impression (to inculcate ideas or lessons that endure over time)
- Make it second nature (to inculcate a habit or skill so deeply that it becomes automatic)
- Carved into stone (to inculcate something permanently and unchangeably)
