WordValeinherent
existing as a natural, permanent part of something
In more detail
1. (adjective) existing as a natural or permanent part of something; always present
2. (adjective) possessed by someone as a natural quality or ability
Examples
- 1. There is an inherent risk in any extreme sport.
- 2. She has an inherent talent for music that showed itself from childhood.
How to use inherent
Inherent describes something that is a permanent, inseparable part of something's nature or character, whether discussing natural qualities, properties, or flaws. It is more formal than inborn and emphasizes the idea that the quality cannot be removed or separated from the thing itself. Used in both formal writing and professional contexts.
Common phrases
- inherent quality
- inherent risk
- inherent weakness
- inherent to
- inherent in
- inherent contradiction
Synonyms
intrinsic · innate · built-in · fundamental · ingrained
Opposites
acquired · external · extraneous
Word family
inherently (adverb) · inherence (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse inherent with inherited; inherent means an intrinsic quality while inherited means passed down through generations or family.
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