What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
innate
Example
Her innate sense of humor made her popular among her friends. [innate: adjective]
Example
The baby had an innate ability to swim, even though he had never been taught. [innate: adjective]
instinctive
Example
The cat's instinctive reaction was to run away when it saw the dog. [instinctive: adjective]
Example
It was instinctive for him to reach out and catch the ball before it hit the ground. [instinctive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Instinctive is more commonly used than innate in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and is more versatile in describing natural behaviors or responses. However, innate is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts, where precision and specificity are valued.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between innate and instinctive?
Both innate and instinctive are neutral in terms of formality, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
