inherent
ihn-HEER-ruhnt
Inherent (adj) means existing as a natural or essential part of something, rather than added on. Example: “Some uncertainty is inherent in any weather forecast.”
adj
1
Existing as a natural or essential part of something, rather than added on.
"Some uncertainty is inherent in any weather forecast."
"There is an inherent risk in any extreme sport."
"Kindness was an inherent part of her character."
How to use inherent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBuilt into something's nature — not something extra added later.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
inherent risk
inherent value
inherent in
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Some uncertainty is _____ in any weather forecast.
Etymology
From Latin inhaerens, "closely attached to" — the same root as "adhere."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for inherent
See all rhymes for inherent →Frequently asked questions
What does “inherent” mean?
The word “inherent” means existing as a natural or essential part of something, rather than added on. In plain terms, built into something's nature — not something extra added later.
How do you pronounce “inherent”?
“Inherent” is pronounced ihn-HEER-ruhnt (/ɪnˈhɪəɹənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “inherent” in a sentence?
Here is “inherent” used in a sentence: “There is an inherent risk in any extreme sport.”
What part of speech is “inherent”?
“Inherent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “inherent” come from?
The word “inherent” comes from Latin. From Latin inhaerens, "closely attached to" — the same root as "adhere.".
Is “inherent” a common word?
“Inherent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
What is the difference between inherent and acquired?
Inherent describes a quality existing as a natural or essential part of something rather than added on, while acquired describes a quality gained over time through experience or external influence. An inherent trait is built-in from the start, whereas an acquired one develops later.
How is 'inherent' used with the preposition 'in'?
Inherent is commonly followed by 'in,' as in 'the risk inherent in the plan' or 'a flaw inherent in the design,' showing that the quality is a built-in part of the thing being described.
What is the difference between inherent and innate?
Inherent and innate are close in meaning, but inherent is used more broadly for essential qualities of things, systems, or situations, while innate typically describes natural qualities specifically present in a person or animal from birth.
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