Inchoate

/ɪnˈkoʊ.ət/

Definitions

  1. (adj.) Not fully formed or developed; rudimentary.
    The inchoate plans for the new policy require further detail.
  2. (adj.) Referring to an offense or right that is incomplete but recognized by law, such as an attempt or conspiracy.
    The defendant was charged with an inchoate crime for conspiring to commit fraud.

Forms

  • inchoated

Commentary

Often used in legal contexts to describe crimes or rights that are not fully realized but still actionable.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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