The adjective 'non-hereditary' describes a characteristic, condition, or trait that is not passed down genetically from parents to offspring. It signifies that the cause or origin of something lies in environmental factors, lifestyle choices, or spontaneous biological events rather than the inherited genetic code. Such attributes arise during an individual's lifetime and are not present at birth due to genetic inheritance. This term often contrasts with conditions or predispositions strongly linked to familial transmission.
Non-hereditary meaning with examples
- Unlike some forms of diabetes, which can have a genetic component, the development of type 2 diabetes can be considered largely non-hereditary. Diet, exercise habits, and age are significant factors. A person’s health is influenced by a number of lifestyle choices and events not passed down in their genes.
- A car accident causing a broken leg is a non-hereditary injury; the trauma results from an external event, and the outcome is not genetically predisposed. It would have not matter if their parents had the strongest bones in the world, the accident would still cause the same effect. This differs from bone density disorders that can sometimes have a genetic basis.
- Many infectious diseases, such as the common cold, are non-hereditary conditions because they result from exposure to pathogens and are not encoded in a person’s DNA. The development of immunity depends upon interactions within a person's life rather than the inheritance of particular genes.
- The acquisition of a specific skill, such as learning to play a musical instrument or a particular sport, is a non-hereditary trait. This skill is learned through practice and experience, and is not dependent upon the passing down of any particular genes. This contrasts with inheriting talent.