Inherently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inherently

[ษชnหˆhษ›rษ™ntli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

used in a sentence

in a way that is a permanent part of something and cannot be separated from it

Synonyms

essentially, fundamentally, intrinsically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inherently

Use when indicating a natural or essential characteristic that is inseparable from the subject.

  • The risk is inherently high in this type of investment.
  • Humans are inherently social creatures.
intrinsically

Use to describe something that is valuable or essential by its very nature, internally rather than due to external factors.

  • Art is intrinsically valuable to culture.
  • She is intrinsically motivated by a passion for learning.
essentially

Use to summarize or emphasize the core nature of something, often when simplifying complex details.

  • Essentially, the problem boils down to a lack of funding.
  • The two companies are essentially the same in their approach.
fundamentally

Use to stress the basic, primary, or underlying principles or aspects of something.

  • Fundamentally, the theory is flawed.
  • Their goals are fundamentally different.

Examples of usage

  • He is inherently lazy and never completes his tasks.
  • Her kindness is inherently part of her nature.
  • The design of the building is inherently flawed.
Context #2 | Adverb

used in a sentence

in a way that is intrinsic or innate to someone or something

Synonyms

innately, instinctively, naturally.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
inherently

Used when something is an essential and permanent part of the nature of a subject or object. It often implies a quality that cannot be separated from the subject.

  • The risks of the job are inherently dangerous.
  • He is inherently honest.
innately

Used to describe qualities or abilities that one is born with, rather than acquired through learning or experience.

  • She is innately curious.
  • An innately talented musician.
naturally

Used when something occurs without being forced or planned; in accordance with nature. Can also mean something that happens as expected.

  • She naturally excels at sports.
  • It naturally follows that if you don't study, you won't pass the exam.
instinctively

Used to describe actions or behaviors that are performed without conscious thought, often as a natural reaction based on instincts.

  • He instinctively knew what to do in the emergency.
  • The cat instinctively pounced on the moving toy.

Examples of usage

  • Freedom is inherently valuable to all human beings.
  • His talent is inherently remarkable.
  • The belief in equality is inherently present in their culture.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers often discuss whether traits are inherently good or bad, impacting ethical theories about human nature.
  • The idea dives deep into questions of whether characteristics are natural parts of beings or influenced by environment and culture.
  • In the philosophy of language, it concerns how the meaning of words can reflect inherent qualities of the objects they describe.

Science

  • In biology, certain traits in organisms are considered inherently beneficial for survival and reproduction, like camouflage in predators.
  • The term is used in genetics to describe traits passed down through generations, showing the natural characteristics shared among related individuals.
  • In physics, certain properties of materials (like density or conductivity) are described as inherently characteristic of those materials.

Education

  • In teaching, recognizing that students may have inherently different learning styles informs educators on how to present information.
  • The concept underlines the importance of inclusive education by acknowledging that every student's capabilities are inherently unique.
  • Education systems aim to identify inherent strengths in students to tailor approaches that develop their natural abilities.

Literature

  • Writers often explore themes of inherent qualities in characters, examining how these traits shape their decisions and fates.
  • In poetry, the imagery of nature often highlights inherent qualities of beauty or danger, reflecting on human emotions and experiences.
  • The idea is prevalent in literary critiques, where scholars analyze how narratives explore what is inherent in human relationships and society.

Origin of 'inherently'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'inherentem', meaning 'to stick in' or 'to attach', reflecting how traits are closely tied to their subjects.
  • In English, it first appeared in the 16th century, emphasizing qualities that are fundamental and existing inside something.
  • The prefix 'in-' suggests something 'in' or 'within', while 'herent' relates to sticking or holding onto something.

The word 'inherently' comes from the combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' or 'opposite of' and the word 'herently' derived from the Latin 'herฤ“ns' meaning 'clinging' or 'adhering'. The term has been used in English since the 16th century to describe something that is an essential characteristic or quality of a person or thing.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,002 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.