intrinsic
12 synonyms and 4 antonyms for intrinsic, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Belonging to something by its very nature; essential and built-in, not added from outside.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use intrinsic
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
intrinsic value
intrinsic motivation
intrinsic to
Etymology
From Latin intrīnsecus, "on the inside, inwardly," from an assumed intrim ("within") + secus ("on the side of").
Full origin of intrinsic →Frequently asked questions
What does “intrinsic” mean?
The word “intrinsic” means belonging to something by its very nature; essential and built-in, not added from outside. In plain terms, a core, natural part of something — not something added on.
How do you pronounce “intrinsic”?
“Intrinsic” is pronounced ihn-TRIHN-zihk (/ɪnˈtɹɪn.zɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “intrinsic” in a sentence?
Here is “intrinsic” used in a sentence: “The intrinsic value of the painting has nothing to do with its price tag.”
What is another word for “intrinsic”?
Words with a similar meaning to “intrinsic” include built-in, essential, immanent, inborn, resident and infused.
What is the opposite of “intrinsic”?
The opposite of “intrinsic” — its antonyms — are alien, external, extrinsic and foreign.
What part of speech is “intrinsic”?
“Intrinsic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “intrinsic” come from?
The word “intrinsic” comes from Latin. From Latin intrīnsecus, "on the inside, inwardly," from an assumed intrim ("within") + secus ("on the side of").
Is “intrinsic” a common word?
“Intrinsic” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.
