intrinsic
/ɪn.ˈtɹɪn.zɪk/adjective
Belonging to the basic nature of a thing; essential and impossible to separate from it.
Example sentences
- “Curiosity has intrinsic value beyond any reward it brings.”
- “Honesty is intrinsic to good journalism.”
The opposite is 'extrinsic'. Philosophers and economists lean on this pair; in plain prose 'built-in' often serves.