Reading Theme:

Language:

Font Size:

📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Intrinsic: Definition, Usage & Key Differences (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：inherent and essential (intrinsic)

intrinsic 🔊

/ɪnˈtrɪnsɪk/

adj.

Belonging to something by its very nature, not coming from outside.

Intrinsic value illustrated by a person finding joy in an old book's texture in a cozy library.

inherent and essential 🔊

➕

/ɪnˈhɪərənt ænd ɪˈsɛnʃəl/

adj.

Describes something that belongs to the very nature of an entity, not derived from external sources.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'intrinsecus' meaning 'on the inside': 'intra-' (inside) + '-secus' (alongside).

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'INside TRue INherent' to recall it means inherent.

📖 Example

For him, the intrinsic value of reading old books lies in the magic they hold, not their price tags. 🔊 For him, the inherent worth of reading old books is found in their enchantment, not their cost.

🔗 Collocations

intrinsic value – the inherent worth of something, independent of external factors

intrinsic motivation – drive that comes from within oneself, not from external rewards

intrinsic property – a characteristic that is essential and inherent to an object

🔄 Synonyms

inherent (adj.) – existing as a natural or basic part of something

innate (adj.) – present from birth; inborn

essential (adj.) – absolutely necessary; fundamental

🚫 Antonyms

extrinsic (adj.) – originating from outside; not inherent

acquired (adj.) – gained through experience or external means

🌱 Derivatives

intrinsically (adv.) – in an intrinsic manner; by its very nature

📖 Cultural Story

Derived from Latin 'intrinsecus', combining 'intra' (within) and 'secus' (alongside), it denotes inherent qualities. Widely used in philosophy and economics to describe value independent of external factors.

Meaning 2：fundamental and basic (intrinsic)

intrinsic 🔊

/ɪnˈtrɪnsɪk/

adj.

The most important and basic part of something.

Intrinsic fundamental nature shown through a person meditating and focusing inward on their breath.

fundamental and basic 🔊

➕

/ˌfʌndəˈmɛntl ænd ˈbeɪsɪk/

adj.

Refers to the most important and essential part that is crucial to something's existence or function.

📁 Category：Physical & Mental Health 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

In yoga, focusing on your breath is an intrinsic part of the practice, without it, the poses lose their deeper meaning. 🔊 In yoga, concentrating on your breath is a fundamental aspect of the practice; without it, the poses lack deeper significance.

🔗 Collocations

intrinsic part – an essential component that cannot be separated from the whole

intrinsic factor – a basic element that is crucial to a process or outcome

intrinsic nature – the fundamental character or essence of something

🔄 Synonyms

fundamental (adj.) – forming a necessary base or core; of central importance

basic (adj.) – forming an essential foundation; primary

integral (adj.) – necessary to make a whole complete; essential

🚫 Antonyms

peripheral (adj.) – relating to the outer edges; not central or essential

superficial (adj.) – existing or occurring on the surface; not deep or fundamental

🌱 Derivatives

intrinsically (adv.) – in a fundamental manner; essentially