Inalienable-Unalienable | Commonly Confused Words
Learn languages with fun

Master confusing words with ease

Inalienable vs. Unalienable

Inalienable

/ɪnˈeɪlɪənəb(ə)l/
Something that cannot be taken away from or given to someone else.

Examples:

Their right to education is deemed inalienable.Freedom of expression is an inalienable right.Cultures strive to preserve their inalienable heritage.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Unalienable

/ʌnˈeɪliənəbl/
When something is described as absolute and cannot be taken away or denied.

Examples:

The document declares certain rights as unalienable.She argued that freedom of expression is an unalienable right.Historians emphasize the concept's unalienable status in society.

Synonyms:

Antonyms:

Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Unalienable and inalienable are often used interchangeably but have subtle differences.
  • Unalienable is often used in historical documents, such as the Declaration of Independence.
  • Inalienable is more commonly used in modern contexts and legal terminology.
  • Both words refer to rights that cannot be given or taken away.
  • The choice between them sometimes depends on tradition or context rather than a strict rule.
© 2025 Lithium Lab Pte Ltd