What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hardwired
Example
She was hardwired to be competitive and always strive for success. [hardwired: adjective]
Example
His fear of spiders was hardwired into his brain from birth. [hardwired: past participle]
innate
Example
Her innate curiosity led her to explore the world around her. [innate: adjective]
Example
He had an innate talent for music, even as a young child. [innate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Innate is more commonly used than hardwired in everyday language. Innate is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of human qualities and abilities, while hardwired is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hardwired and innate?
Both hardwired and innate are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
