English Reference

Word

inevitably

Phoneticsin·evitably

US/ˌɪˈnɛvətəbɫi/

UK/ɪnˈɛvɪtəbli/

Sentence adverb

Definitions

01unavoidably

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adv. in a way that is impossible to avoid or prevent.

adv. in a manner that is certain to occur; impossible to evade or forestall.

“If you don't study for the exam, you will inevitably fail.”

“The rapid expansion of the city inevitably led to increased traffic congestion and a shortage of affordable housing in the central districts.”

Usage

Typically placed before the main verb or after the first auxiliary verb.

Synonyms

Antonyms

avoidablyuncertainly

02predictably

C1 · Advanced Formal

adv. as you would expect to happen in a certain situation.

adv. occurring as a natural or expected consequence of a situation; predictably.

“Inevitably, the party ended with everyone singing together.”

“Inevitably, the conversation turned to politics as soon as the formal dinner had concluded.”

Usage

Often used as a sentence adverb at the beginning of a clause to set the tone.

Synonyms

predictablyexpectedly

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “inevitably” in context.

Verb

01. inevitably lead

“Poor communication between departments will inevitably lead to confusion and delays.”

adv + verb

02. inevitably result

“The lack of investment will inevitably result in the closure of the factory.”

adv + verb

Real-World Examples

“A destabilised Lebanon would inevitably destabilise Syria as well.”
Al Jazeera 15 Aug 2026
“One of Gustavson’s victims speaks compellingly, but “Michael” inevitably has his face and voice disguised.”
The Guardian 13 Aug 2026

Etymology

From inevitable + -ly.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADVERB

inevitably(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper IntermediateOxford
Updated

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English Reference