INNATE Synonyms: 51 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'innate' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of innate are congenital , hereditary , inborn , and inbred . While all these words mean "not acquired after birth," innate applies to qualities or characteristics that are part of one's inner essential nature. // an innate sense of fair play

Q: How are the words 'congenital' and 'hereditary' related as synonyms of 'innate'?

Both congenital and hereditary refer to what is acquired before or at birth, the former to things acquired during fetal development and the latter to things transmitted from one's ancestors. // a congenital heart murmur // eye color is hereditary

Q: When would 'inborn' be a good substitute for 'innate'?

The meanings of inborn and innate largely overlap; however, inborn suggests a quality or tendency either actually present at birth or so marked and deep-seated as to seem so. // her inborn love of nature

Q: When might 'inbred' be a better fit than 'innate'?

The synonyms inbred and innate are sometimes interchangeable, but inbred suggests something either acquired from parents by heredity or so deeply rooted and ingrained as to seem acquired in that way. // inbred political loyalties

innate

adjective

i-ˈnāt

Definition of innate next

as in inherent

being a part of the innermost nature of a person or thing an innate athletic ability that allowed him to excel at just about any sport he tried his hand at

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How is the word innate different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of innate are congenital, hereditary, inborn, and inbred. While all these words mean "not acquired after birth," innate applies to qualities or characteristics that are part of one's inner essential nature.

an innate sense of fair play

How are the words congenital and hereditary related as synonyms of innate?

Both congenital and hereditary refer to what is acquired before or at birth, the former to things acquired during fetal development and the latter to things transmitted from one's ancestors.

a congenital heart murmur

eye color is hereditary

When would inborn be a good substitute for innate?

The meanings of inborn and innate largely overlap; however, inborn suggests a quality or tendency either actually present at birth or so marked and deep-seated as to seem so.

her inborn love of nature

When might inbred be a better fit than innate?

The synonyms inbred and innate are sometimes interchangeable, but inbred suggests something either acquired from parents by heredity or so deeply rooted and ingrained as to seem acquired in that way.

inbred political loyalties

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of innate Assuming that a special, innate talent is required (like a magical power) can discourage emerging leaders from aiming higher and taking on new challenges. —

Csaba Toth, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 Conversely, when they’re solely focused on reaching the other person, their innate communication skill unlocks fluidly and organically. —

Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025 For all the merits of the singer’s full-band assemblies, his innate chemistry and near five-decade history with Nieve often lead to unexpected destinations and inspire him to dig deep into his massive catalog. —

Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 9 Jan. 2025 Riley’s awesomely committed performance makes these warring qualities seem helplessly innate rather than showy. —

Dennis Harvey, Variety, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for innate

Recent Examples of Synonyms for innate

Adjective

That kind of inherent understanding of a community in a specific geographical area, and the intricacies of their struggles, can’t be researched, only witnessed firsthand.

— Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 27 Jan. 2025
To operate a dangerous vehicle is not an inherent right but a privilege, and one that can be taken away for those who don’t exercise it responsibly.

— New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 25 Jan. 2025