Difference between inactive and latent
Definitions
adjective
- not active physically or mentally
- not exerting influence or change
- (of e.g. volcanos) not erupting and not extinct
- (pathology) not progressing or increasing; or progressing slowly
- lacking activity; lying idle or unused
Examples
Overall, the number of inactive people who do not want a job jumped by 88,000 over the past quarter.
Some people who are made redundant get another job or become economically inactive.
Being physically inactive (less than 30 minutes of activity a day) greatly increases your chances of getting chronic diseases.
Definitions
adjective
- potentially existing but not presently evident or realized
- (pathology) not presently active
Examples
If they receive a second exposure with a low intensity light, developer anions adsorbed to the surface sensitivity centers effectively repel the photoelectrons so that surface latent image specks cannot form.
The Opposition was also anxious to embarrass the Government, and to trap it within its own latent inconsistencies.
Harry disguises the latent homosexual feelings he has for his best friend Ron, by having a string of one night stands with besotted girls in the year below him.
