What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
heritable
Example
The color of your eyes is heritable and determined by your parents' genes. [heritable: adjective]
Example
The land was not heritable due to legal disputes over ownership. [heritable: adjective]
Example
The company's shares are heritable by the owner's children after their passing. [heritable: verb]
inheritable
Example
Hemophilia is an inheritable disease that affects blood clotting. [inheritable: adjective]
Example
The house was left to the children as an inheritable asset. [inheritable: adjective]
Example
The debts of the deceased are inheritable by their heirs. [inheritable: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inheritable is slightly more common than heritable in everyday language, as it is used in both legal and non-legal contexts. However, both words are relatively uncommon and may not be familiar to beginner ESL learners.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between heritable and inheritable?
Both heritable and inheritable are formal words that are typically used in academic, scientific, or legal contexts. They may not be appropriate for casual or informal situations.
