Inherently: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.