Words / C2

NASNT/ˈnæsnt/

Nascent means only just beginning to exist: a nascent industry, nascent opposition. New is everyday and broader; emerging is the common news synonym. Nascent stresses “not formed yet,” so it fits an early stage, not a finished product. In speech, just starting or in its early days is clearer. It is a useful essay adjective if you do not pair it with another showy word in the same sentence.

Meaning

Just beginning to exist or develop.

Examples

• “The city has a nascent tech industry.”
• “The city’s nascent cycling culture still lacks safe roads.”
• “His nascent interest in Arabic faded after the first grammar book.”

Good to know

Just coming into being. Everyday: emerging / just starting. Formal/essay register.

Near in meaning

emerging

New