What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
genetic
Example
The color of your eyes is determined by your genetic makeup. [genetic: adjective]
Example
Genetic testing can help identify potential health risks. [genetic: adjective]
hereditary
Example
Hemophilia is a hereditary disease that affects blood clotting. [hereditary: adjective]
Example
My grandfather had a hereditary predisposition to heart disease. [hereditary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hereditary is more commonly used in everyday language than genetic. However, both words are important in the context of biology and medical science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between genetic and hereditary?
Genetic is generally considered more formal than hereditary, which is often used in informal contexts.
