What does entail mean?

Question

I came across the word 'entail' in a book I was reading, but I'm not quite sure what it means. Can someone explain it to me? I'm also curious about how it's used in different contexts, like in legal terms or everyday conversation.

Mary Jassar · Accepted Answer

Here’s a breakdown of the meanings and uses of 'entail': General Definition: To entail means to involve something as a necessary or inevitable part or consequence. For example, if you say, 'Taking this job will entail a lot of travel,' it means that traveling is a necessary part of the job. Legal Context: In legal terms, 'entail' often refers to the restriction of property inheritance. An entailment can limit the inheritance of property to specific heirs, preventing it from being sold or passed to others outside the designated line of descent. This is often seen in historical contexts regarding land ownership. Everyday Usage: In everyday conversation, you might use 'entail' to discuss responsibilities or tasks. For instance, 'Starting a business entails a lot of planning and investment.' This usage emphasizes that certain actions or decisions come with specific responsibilities or outcomes. In summary, 'entail' signifies a connection between actions and their consequences, whether in general conversation or specific legal contexts. Understanding this term can help clarify discussions about responsibilities and legal matters.