Innate: meaning, definitions and examples

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innate

[ ɪˈneɪt ]

Adjective

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

inborn qualities

Innate refers to qualities or characteristics that are natural, inherent, or present from birth. These are traits that are not learned or acquired, but rather are part of one's nature.

Synonyms

inborn, inherent, instinctive, natural.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
innate	Used to describe qualities or abilities that are a fundamental part of a person’s nature from birth. Her innate musical talent was obvious from a very young age He has an innate sense of justice
inborn	Refers to characteristics or abilities that a person is born with, often suggesting they are an unchangeable part of that person. He has an inborn inability to digest dairy products Her inborn creativity allowed her to excel in art
inherent	Used to describe qualities that are a natural and inseparable part of something, often implying they could not exist without these qualities. The risks are inherent in the sport of skydiving There was an inherent flaw in the design of the building
natural	Indicates qualities or abilities that someone is born with, or actions that happen without effort, as if by nature. She has a natural talent for singing It felt natural for him to lead the team
instinctive	Describes actions or reactions that are natural and automatic, not learned or reasoned. Her instinctive reaction was to protect her child He gave an instinctive answer to the unexpected question

Examples of usage

Her innate talent for music was evident from a very young age.
The instinct to protect their young is innate in most animals.
His innate kindness and compassion towards others made him a beloved figure in the community.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

existing in one from birth

Innate can also describe things that exist in a person or organism from the moment of birth. These are qualities that are not acquired later in life, but are instead present from the beginning.

Synonyms

inborn, inherent, intrinsic, natural.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
innate	Used to describe qualities or abilities that a person is born with, often implying that they are part of one's nature. She has an innate talent for music. His sense of humor is innate.
inborn	Refers to characteristics that exist from birth, typically used in a biological or genetic context. Her inborn intelligence was evident from a young age. Some people have an inborn tendency to be more athletic.
inherent	Describes traits or attributes that are permanent and indispensable, often used to highlight essential or fundamental qualities. Risks are inherent in any investment. The right to freedom is inherent in all humans.
natural	Describes qualities or behaviors that are not artificial, often highlighting ease and authenticity. It can be used broadly in both inherent and developed contexts. She has a natural ability to connect with people. It feels natural to want to help others.
intrinsic	Used to denote qualities that belong naturally and essentially to something, often emphasizing the core nature of an object or person. The intrinsic value of the artwork cannot be measured in money. He enjoys the intrinsic rewards of the work itself.

Examples of usage

She had an innate sense of direction and never got lost in unfamiliar places.
The ability to speak a language fluently is often considered innate in young children.
His innate curiosity and eagerness to learn new things set him apart from his peers.

Translations

Translations of the word "innate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inato

🇮🇳 जन्मजात

🇩🇪 angeboren

🇮🇩 bawaan

🇺🇦 вроджений

🇵🇱 wrodzony

🇯🇵 先天的 (せんてんてき)

🇫🇷 inné

🇪🇸 innato

🇹🇷 doğuştan

🇰🇷 타고난

🇸🇦 فطري

🇨🇿 vrozený

🇸🇰 vrodený

🇨🇳 天生的 (tiānshēng de)

🇸🇮 prirojen

🇮🇸 meðfæddur

🇰🇿 туа

🇬🇪 თანდაყოლილი

🇦🇿 anadangəlmə

🇲🇽 innato

Etymology

The word 'innate' has its origins in the Latin word 'innatus', which means 'inborn' or 'native'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. The concept of innate qualities has been a subject of philosophical and scientific debate throughout history, with thinkers exploring the idea of inherent characteristics versus acquired traits.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,812 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.

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9809 abscess
9810 honoured
9811 referee
9812 innate
9813 delete
9814 profitability
9815 enamel
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