Ingrain

To firmly establish a habit, belief, or quality in someone or something. This process often involves repeated experiences or teachings, leading to something deeply rooted and difficult to change. It implies a thorough permeation of the subject, leaving a lasting impression and shaping behavior or character. The effect of ingraining is to make something integral and essential, becoming an inherent part of the entity it affects. The object or idea will become a key foundation within the target.

Ingrain meaning with examples

• Her parents actively worked to ingrain a strong work ethic in her from a young age. They assigned chores, praised diligence, and demonstrated their own dedication to their jobs, resulting in the trait becoming a deeply ingrained part of her personality. This helped make her succeed, as she became a highly productive individual.
• The military uses rigorous training exercises to ingrain discipline and obedience in its recruits. The repetitive drills, strict routines, and emphasis on following orders without question are designed to make these qualities automatic, second nature, even under extreme pressure. This results in highly coordinated operations.
• Advertising campaigns often aim to ingrain brand recognition and loyalty in consumers' minds through repeated exposure and positive associations. Consistent messaging, memorable jingles, and clever slogans are used to create a strong and lasting impression, leading to increased sales and brand preference. This is especially important for companies.
• The education system should ingrain critical thinking skills in students from an early age. By encouraging questioning, analysis, and problem-solving, educators can help students develop a deep understanding of concepts, resulting in students who are able to adapt to new information and situations, enabling them to become more adaptable in life.