What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
congenital
Example
The baby was born with a congenital heart defect. [congenital: adjective]
Example
She has a congenital talent for music. [congenital: adjective]
inborn
Example
Her inborn curiosity led her to explore the world around her. [inborn: adjective]
Example
The child had an inborn talent for drawing. [inborn: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inborn is more commonly used than congenital in everyday language, as it has a wider scope and is more versatile in its usage. Congenital is more specialized and is typically used in medical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between congenital and inborn?
Congenital is more formal than inborn, which is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
