Synonyms

incur

American

[in-kur] / ɪnˈkɜr /

verb (used with object)

incurred, incurring

to come into or acquire (some consequence, usually undesirable or injurious).

to incur a huge number of debts.
to become liable or subject to through one's own action; bring or take upon oneself.

to incur his displeasure.

Synonyms:

provoke, incite, arouse

incur British

/ ɪnˈkɜː /

verb

to make oneself subject to (something undesirable); bring upon oneself
to run into or encounter

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

incurrable adjective
reincur verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of incur

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin incurrere “to run into, come upon,” equivalent to in- in- ² + currere “to run”; current

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is seeking compensation for the costs incurred in these legal battles.

From Barron's

It also incurs brokerage costs whenever it trades.

From The Wall Street Journal

Pacquiao’s lawyers said the boxer “incurred millions of dollars in legal fees and costs to clear his name.”

From Los Angeles Times

The group said earlier this month it would incur colossal charges to finance a shift back to combustion engines and away from producing EVs after sales fell well below expectations.

From Barron's

The GPS is not totally precise, meaning often riders can simply leave a bike or scooter near a parking bay without incurring a penalty.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023