What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inbred
Example
The dog was inbred, which led to health problems later in life. [inbred: adjective]
Example
His inbred talent for music was evident from a young age. [inbred: adjective]
Example
The small town had an inbred culture that was resistant to change. [inbred: adjective]
hereditary
Example
The disease was hereditary and affected multiple members of the family. [hereditary: adjective]
Example
He inherited his father's hereditary title of Duke. [hereditary: adjective]
Example
The company was hereditary and had been in the family for generations. [hereditary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hereditary is more commonly used than inbred in everyday language, particularly when referring to genetic factors in humans.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inbred and hereditary?
Hereditary is more formal than inbred, as it is often used in scientific or medical contexts.
