nèizài

Nèizài (内在) is a Mandarin Chinese term meaning "internal" or "intrinsic." It describes qualities, processes, or aspects that exist within an object, system, or person, rather than those that are external or outward. The word combines 内 (inside) and 在 (to be/exist) and has deep roots in Classical Chinese; it remains widely used in modern Chinese across various disciplines.

Usage and scope: In philosophy, psychology, linguistics, and literature, 内在 is used to refer to inherent or essential aspects. Common phrases include 内在价值 (intrinsic value), 内在动机 (intrinsic motivation), 内在冲突 (internal conflict), and 内在功能 (intrinsic function or capacity). The term is often contrasted with 外在 (wàizài), meaning external.

Philosophical notes: 内在 is employed to discuss intrinsic properties—characteristics that belong to an entity independently of external observers or relations—versus extrinsic or relational properties. In psychology and cognitive science, it also appears in discussions of internal processes and motivations that are not solely determined by external circumstances.

See also: 外在.