a hereditary matter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hereditary matter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to issues or characteristics that are passed down through generations, often related to genetics or family traits. Example: "The disease is considered a hereditary matter, affecting multiple generations of the family."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is a hereditary issue one is born with.

Harvard University

One of them regarded hereditary matter as particulate and amenable to breeding analysis.

SEP

It's a hereditary monarchy, for one thing, and not a "constitutional" one.

The New Yorker

Given her previous disinclination to work, and the fairly central role of reproduction in a hereditary monarchy, the media's obedience in this matter is something the Leveson inquiry might, at some point, want to take into account.

The Guardian - Opinion

Is violence a hereditary characteristic?

The New Yorker

A knighthood? Lynton Crosby deserves a hereditary peerage.

Independent

A hereditary element in society is fantastic.

The Guardian - Arts

The fourth alternative was a hereditary monarchy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"It's a hereditary baronetcy," he says.

Independent

Otosclerosis appears to be a hereditary disorder.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He ruled Lithuania as a hereditary domain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a hereditary matter", ensure the context clearly indicates that you are discussing traits, conditions, or issues passed down through generations. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a hereditary matter" when the condition or trait is merely congenital (present at birth) but not necessarily inherited. Hereditary implies a genetic transmission, while congenital only indicates presence from birth, regardless of cause.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hereditary matter" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "hereditary" modifies the noun "matter". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and is used to describe issues or characteristics passed down through generations.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a hereditary matter" is a grammatically sound way to refer to issues or conditions transmitted genetically. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and general understanding. Although not exceedingly common, its use is appropriate across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic discussions. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates genetic inheritance, distinguishing it from merely congenital conditions. Consider alternatives like "an inherited issue" or "a genetic concern" for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inherited issue

Focuses on the aspect of inheritance, highlighting that the matter is something received from predecessors.

a genetic concern

Highlights the genetic component, framing it as a cause for worry or attention.

an inherited problem

Directly states the hereditary element as a difficulty or trouble.

a familial trait

Emphasizes the aspect of family and the characteristic being passed down.

a genetic predisposition

Indicates an increased likelihood due to genetics, rather than a definite inheritance.

a congenital element

Highlights that the matter is present from birth, though not necessarily inherited.

a germline mutation

More technical, referring specifically to mutations passed on through reproductive cells.

an ancestral affair

Connects the matter to ancestors and their history.

a lineage-related concern

Focuses on the lineage or ancestry as the primary factor.

a family-linked question

Frames the hereditary aspect as a question or matter tied to the family.

FAQs

How can "a hereditary matter" be used in a sentence?

You might say, "The prevalence of heart disease in the family suggests it could be "a hereditary matter"" to indicate a genetic component is suspected.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "a hereditary matter"?

Alternatives include phrases like "an inherited issue", "a genetic concern", or "a familial trait", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "a hereditary matter" in formal writing?

Yes, "a hereditary matter" is acceptable in formal writing. However, consider your audience and the context; a more precise term like "genetic predisposition" might be preferable in scientific contexts.

What is the difference between "a hereditary matter" and "a congenital condition"?

"A hereditary matter" refers to something passed down genetically through generations, while "a congenital condition" is present at birth but may not be genetic. A congenital condition could be due to environmental factors during pregnancy, for example.