inure

What does “inure” mean?

noun.to accustom (someone) to something, especially something unpleasant.

SAT Usage

the term is typically used in contexts involving resilience, adaptation, or the effects of hardship. It emphasizes a process of becoming accustomed to adverse conditions, suggesting a gradual desensitization rather than mere acceptance, distinguishing it from similar terms like "acclimate," which implies adjustment without the negative connotation.

Common Confusions

Inure implies a process of becoming accustomed to unpleasant conditions, while acclimate usually suggests adapting to a neutral or positive environment without the negative connotation.

Example Sentences

• Years of criticism had inured her to harsh reviews.

• Years of training in harsh conditions helped inure the athletes to the challenges of competition, making them resilient against the pressures of the championship.