intrinsically

American  

[in-trin-sik-lee, -zik] / ɪnˈtrɪn sɪk li, -zɪk /

adverb

1. by nature; as a necessary or inseparable element or quality.

   As intrinsically social beings, humans cannot achieve even basic survival without connecting and forming relationships with others.

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Etymology

Origin of intrinsically

First recorded in 1545–55; intrinsic ( def. ) + -ally ( def. )

Explanation

Use the adverb intrinsically to describe things that are a vital, important, or natural part of something. For example, great teachers are intrinsically associated with a great school. Something that is intrinsic is an essential part of a whole, so intrinsically describes something closely connected to or inseparable from something. For example, if you believe people are intrinsically good, you think goodness is a part of being human. The Latin root is intrinsecus, which means "inwardly, on the inside."

Example Sentences

For much of its existence, the Chrysler name has been intrinsically tied to Detroit’s Big Three automakers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

"Michael is still intrinsically linked because he credits the boys' club with so much that was positive about his childhood," he said.

From BBC • Mar. 3, 2026

Tonatiuh: Well, the two films are intrinsically connected.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

"Congression, the alignment of chromosomes, is intrinsically linked to biorientation," says Tolić.

From Science Daily • Dec. 10, 2025

He emphasized the historical achievements of Africa and Africans, and noted how foolish it was for whites to see themselves as a chosen people and an intrinsically superior race.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

• actually
• approximately
• necessarily
• originally
• permanently
• quite
• really
• substantially
• truly
• typically
• virtually