What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heritable
Example
Eye color is a heritable trait that can be passed down from parents to their children. [heritable: adjective]
Example
The study found that intelligence is highly heritable, with genetic factors accounting for up to 80% of individual differences. [heritable: adjective]
genetic
Example
The researchers are studying the genetic basis of cancer to develop new treatments. [genetic: adjective]
Example
Height is largely determined by genetic factors, although environmental factors can also play a role. [genetic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Genetic is more commonly used than heritable in everyday language. Genetic is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while heritable is less common and more specialized.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between heritable and genetic?
Both heritable and genetic are formal terms that are typically used in scientific and academic contexts.
