inherent
Existing as a natural or essential part of something; built-in.
Examples
In a meeting
“There are inherent risks in any new market entry — we need to plan for them.”
Over coffee
“There's an inherent awkwardness in meeting your partner's parents for the first time.”
Why this word
natural
Inherent means existing as an inseparable essential characteristic, while natural suggests accordance with nature or instinct
built-in
Inherent emphasizes essential existence in the nature of something, while built-in suggests deliberate inclusion during construction
basic
Inherent means intrinsically existing as a permanent attribute, while basic refers to fundamental level or simplicity
Usage tip
Implies something can't be separated from the thing it's part of. Inherent traits aren't added — they're baked in.
Etymology
Latin inhaerere — in (in) + haerere (to stick, cling)
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Related words
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
perpetual
Never ending or changing; occurring continuously.
ample
More than enough; plentiful and sufficient.
fundamental
Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
versatile
Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.
inadvertent
Not resulting from or achieved through deliberate planning; unintentional.