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Intrinsic

Relating to the inner nature; inborn; built-in; inherent.

adjective

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Imagine This

Since most people have their own built-in interests, it is difficult to change their thinking or way of doing things.

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Sounds Like

in-TRIN-sik

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Looks Like

inherent, internal

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Remember This

Intrinsic describes something that belongs to the essential nature of a person or thing, not something added from outside; often contrasted with extrinsic.

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Other Forms

intrinsicallyadverb

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Connect With

inherent, innate, inborn, built-in, internal; antonym: extrinsic

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Note

Use intrinsic to describe internal qualities or values. Be careful not to confuse with extrinsic, which refers to external factors or rewards.

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Study Deeper

Examples

The intrinsic value of honesty is recognized across cultures.
Her intrinsic motivation came from curiosity and a love of learning, not from external rewards.

Synonyms

inherentinnateinbornbuilt-ininternal

Antonyms

extrinsicexternalacquired

Etymology

From Latin intrinsecus 'inward, internal', meaning inside; the English form is built from that Latin root.

Mnemonic

INside + TRINsic: remember that intrinsic means something that is inside the core or essential to something.