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March 24, 2026
内在(內在)nèizài(nei4zai4)
内在 refers to qualities or characteristics that are inherent or intrinsic to a person or thing, rather than those that are externally imposed. It is often used in contexts discussing personality traits, values, or the essence of objects and ideas.
Frequency#7758DifficultyHard
Cultural Note
In Chinese philosophy, particularly in Confucianism, the concept of 内在 is crucial as it emphasizes the importance of inner virtues and personal development over external appearances or social status.
Memory Tip
Imagine a treasure chest (内) hidden inside (在) a mountain. This chest contains the true, intrinsic value of the mountain, representing the core essence that is not visible from the outside.
Meanings of 内在
nèizài(nei4zai4)
1intrinsic
2innate
Exercise 1 of 2
Listen & Choose the Meaning
Choose the correct answer:
About 内在
内在Simplified
內在Traditional
—Strokes
—Radical
区别词distinguishing word (dist.)Part of Speech
#7758Frequency Rank
HSK 2.0L6HSK 3.0L7IntermediateHSKKL3CEFRB2
Podcast: 内在
Podcast: 内在
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AI Study Notes for 内在
Quick Contrast
内在 (intrinsic) vs 外在 (extrinsic) — use 内在 when discussing inherent qualities as opposed to those influenced by external factors.
Memory Mnemonic
Imagine a treasure chest (内) hidden inside (在) a mountain. This chest contains the true, intrinsic value of the mountain, representing the core essence that is not visible from the outside.
Usage Notes
Be careful not to confuse 内在 with 外在 (external), which refers to outward appearance or characteristics. This term is more often used in philosophical or psychological discussions, making it slightly formal. Common collocations include 内在价值 (intrinsic value) and 内在动机 (intrinsic motivation).
HSK Study Tips
As an HSK 6 word, 内在 connects to other advanced vocabulary related to philosophy and psychology. Focus on understanding its use in complex sentences and its relationship to concepts like 本质 (essence) and 价值 (value).
Cultural Note
In Chinese philosophy, particularly in Confucianism, the concept of 内在 is crucial as it emphasizes the importance of inner virtues and personal development over external appearances or social status.
Common Mistakes
Learners often confuse 内在 with 外在 and might say something like '他的外在品质很重要' when they mean to emphasize intrinsic qualities. The correction would be '他的内在品质很重要'.
AI-enhanced 2026-03-24
Pronunciation of 内在
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Grammar Patterns of 内在
内在 carries 2 distinct meanings. Below you'll find the patterns that show how it combines with other words, plus example sentences pulled directly from native usage.
Exercise 1 of 2
Complete the Sentence
不过，缺乏的是一种____的艺术凝聚力。
What is missing, however, is an internal, artistic cohesion.
Example Sentences for 内在 (2)
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1
不过，缺乏的是一种内在的艺术凝聚力。
bù guò， ， quē fá de shì yī zhǒng nèi zài de yì shù níng jù。
What is missing, however, is an internal, artistic cohesion.
2
核膜内陷,于是溶酶体被内在化.
hé mó nèi xiàn, , yú shì róng méi tǐ bèi nèi zài.
The nuclear membrane invaginates and lysosomes are internalized.
Cultural Notes for 内在
🏮Cultural insight
In Chinese philosophy, particularly in Confucianism, the concept of 内在 is crucial as it emphasizes the importance of inner virtues and personal development over external appearances or social status.
Frequently Asked Questions about 内在
You can say '他的内在品质非常优秀' (His intrinsic qualities are outstanding).
内在 is generally used in more formal contexts, especially in philosophical discussions.
The opposite is 外在 (external), which refers to outside characteristics.
