: involved in the constitution or essential character of something : belonging by nature or habit : intrinsic
risks inherent in the venture
inherentlyadverb
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Don't Get Stuck on the Meaning of Inherent
Inherent literally refers to something that is "stuck in" something else so firmly that they can't be separated. A plan may have an inherent flaw that will cause it to fail; a person may have inherent virtues that everyone admires. Since the flaw and the virtues can't be removed, the plan may simply have to be thrown out and the person will remain virtuous forever.
It is one more proof that our world has lost the kind of exquisite sensibility displayed by John Milton when he came up with his definition of poetry. He first wrote "simple, sensual, and passionate," but he was bothered by the grossness inherent in "sensual," and so he invented the word "sensuous."—Florence King, National Review, 24 Sept. 2007There were those who trusted the innate goodness of humanity, and those who believed in its inherent crookedness.—Terry Eagleton, Harper's, March 2005The problem … is inherent and perennial in any democracy, but it has been more severe in ours during the past quarter-century because of the near universal denigration of government, politics and politicians.—Michael Kinsley, Time, 29 Oct. 2001
He has an inherent sense of fair play.
an inherent concept of justice
Recent Examples on the WebThe show’s inherent sorrow is alleviated by Donahoe’s sense of hope, humor, and the notion that being alive is beautiful.—Chris Bellamy and Kyle Fowle, EW.com, 10 May 2024 Topics ranged from navigating collaboration theory and inherent creative tensions to K-Culture and sneaker collectors.—Melinda Sheckells, The Hollywood Reporter, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for inherent
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inherent.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Latin inhaerent-, inhaerens, present participle of inhaerēre — see inhere
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