Definition

Adjective: - Incapable of being repudiated or transferred to another: Describes something, especially a right or principle, that is absolute, inherent, and cannot be taken away, given away, or denied. It is fundamental and nontransferable.

Usage

The word "unalienable" is a formal, often legal or philosophical term used to describe fundamental rights or qualities considered inherent and absolute. It is most famously used in the United States Declaration of Independence. - It is typically used attributively (before a noun), such as "unalienable rights." - It is synonymous with "inalienable," which is the more common modern spelling.

Examples

• The Declaration of Independence states that all men are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
• Many philosophers argue that human dignity is an unalienable quality of every person.
• The constitution was designed to protect the unalienable freedoms of the citizens.

Advanced Usage

• "Unalienable" vs. "Inalienable": Both words have the same meaning. "Unalienable" is an older form, famously used in the 1776 U.S. Declaration of Independence. "Inalienable" is the more common spelling in modern legal and philosophical contexts. The choice between them is often stylistic or traditional.
• Legal Context: In legal doctrine, "unalienable rights" are rights that cannot be surrendered, sold, or transferred to someone else, even by the person possessing them. They are inherent to human existence.

Variants and Related Words

• Inalienable (adj.): The more frequently used variant meaning the same as "unalienable."
  • Example: Freedom of thought is an inalienable human right.
• Alienable (adj.): The direct opposite, meaning capable of being sold, transferred, or surrendered.
  • Example: Most property is considered alienable.

Synonyms

• Absolute: Not qualified or diminished in any way.
• Inherent: Existing as a permanent, essential characteristic.
• Nontransferable: Not able to be made over to the possession of another.
• Sacrosanct: Regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with.

Antonyms

• Alienable: Capable of being transferred or given away.
• Transferable: Able to be made over to another.
• Revocable: Capable of being canceled or withdrawn.

Adjective

1. incapable of being repudiated or transferred to another
   • endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights