What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
initial
Example
The initial phase of the project involved research and planning. [initial: adjective]
Example
Please write your initials on the top of each page. [initials: noun]
Example
The initial step in solving this problem is to gather more information. [initial: noun]
incipient
Example
The incipient stage of the company's growth showed great promise. [incipient: adjective]
Example
The incipient rebellion was quickly suppressed by the government. [incipient: adjective]
Example
The doctor detected the incipient signs of diabetes during the patient's check-up. [incipient: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Initial is more commonly used than incipient in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between initial and incipient?
Both initial and incipient can be used in formal contexts, but initial is more commonly used in both formal and informal settings due to its versatility.
