Translation guide
The English word "inherent" describes a quality or characteristic that is a natural, permanent, and inseparable part of something. This guide helps learners express this concept naturally in Japanese, covering built-in traits, innate human qualities, and essential features of systems or objects.
Describing a feature, property, or quality that is an inseparable part of something non-living, like an object, system, or concept.
The most common and versatile word for 'inherent' or 'intrinsic'. Used for characteristics that are unique to or naturally belong to something. Often used in technical or formal contexts.
この物質には固有の性質がある。
This substance has inherent properties.
言語には固有の文法規則がある。
Languages have inherent grammatical rules.
Means 'originally' or 'inherently', often used as an adverb. Emphasizes the true, natural state of something. Can also be used as a noun with の.
本来の目的を見失ってはいけない。
We must not lose sight of the inherent purpose.
この素材は本来、防水性がある。
This material is inherently waterproof.
Means 'inherent' or 'immanent', emphasizing that something exists within and is inseparable. Often used in philosophical or abstract contexts.
この理論には内在する矛盾がある。
This theory has an inherent contradiction.
Describing a trait, ability, or tendency that someone is born with or naturally possesses.
The most natural way to say 'innate' or 'inborn'. Used for qualities present from birth. Can be used as a noun or adverb.
彼女は生まれつきの才能がある。
She has an innate talent.
彼は生まれつき優しい。
He is inherently kind.
Refers to one's 'innate nature' or 'natural disposition'. Slightly more literary than 生まれつき, often used for talents or character.
Means 'instinctive' or 'inherent' in the sense of being driven by instinct. Used for behaviors or reactions that are natural and unlearned.
Expressing that a risk or negative aspect is an unavoidable part of a situation or activity.
A common phrase meaning 'something that inevitably accompanies' or 'is inherent in'. Often used in the pattern ～には～がつきものだ.
投資にはリスクがつきものだ。
Risk is inherent in investment.
新しい挑戦には失敗がつきものだ。
Failure is inherent in new challenges.
Means 'unavoidable' or 'inherent' in the sense that something cannot be escaped. A straightforward way to express inherent negatives.
この仕事には避けられないストレスがある。
This job has inherent stress.
While 内在する is a direct translation, it sounds overly technical or philosophical in casual conversation. Use 固有 or 本来 for objects, and 生まれつき for people.
彼は生まれつき親切だ。
He is inherently kind. (natural)
彼は内在的に親切だ。
He is inherently kind. (unnatural, overly technical)
彼は天性のリーダーだ。
He is a natural-born leader.
動物は本能的に危険を察知する。
Animals inherently sense danger.