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Inert vs Latent - What's the difference?

inert | latent |

As adjectives the difference between inert and latent

is that inert is unable to move or act; inanimate while latent is existing or present but concealed or inactive.

As a noun inert

is (chemistry) a substance that does not react chemically.

inert

English

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • Unable to move or act; inanimate.
  • Sluggish or lethargic.
  • In chemistry, not readily reacting with other elements or compounds.
  • Having no therapeutic action.

    • Derived terms

    * inert gas * inertly

    See also

    * inertia

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • (chemistry) A substance that does not react chemically.

    • Anagrams

    * * * * * ----

    latent

    English

    Adjective

    (-)
  • Existing or present but concealed or inactive.
  • * 2008 July 2, Joe Palca, “Scientists Make Herpes Breakthrough”, abstract, All Things Considered , National Public Radio
    • Those infected with a herpes virus are infected for life. That’s because the virus goes "latent ." Sometimes, it awakes from its slumber, producing painful illnesses.

    Related terms

    * latency

    Synonyms

    *(concealed) hidden, invisible *(inactive) dormant

    Antonyms

    *(concealed) apparent, patent, visible

    Anagrams

    * * ----