Definition

The state of being unable to be taken away or transferred from someone.

Example

The inalienability of certain rights is a fundamental principle in human rights law.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of inalienability in human rights?

Yeah, it means that certain rights can't be taken away from a person.

Exactly! It's interesting how it applies to so many legal cases.

Right, it really highlights the importance of protecting those rights.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inalienability → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not), "alienus" (from Latin, meaning belonging to another or foreign), and "-ability" (meaning the quality of being able). The term refers to the quality of something that cannot be taken away or transferred to another party.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to be 'belonging to another' ('alienus') — that's why inalienability means something that cannot be taken away.

Visually Confused Words