Select the antonym of the word "intrinsic" from the following alternatives, choosing the option that best expresses the opposite meaning.

Introduction / Context:
Antonym questions test your understanding of subtle differences between words. The adjective "intrinsic" is widely used in academic, scientific and general English to describe qualities that belong naturally to something. To answer correctly, you must recognise this meaning and then choose the opposite concept. This is important for reading textbooks, exam questions and even business writing where such abstract vocabulary is common.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: "intrinsic".
• Task: choose the antonym (opposite in meaning).
• Options: elemental, innate, connate, acquired.
• We assume standard dictionary meanings for all options.

Concept / Approach:
"Intrinsic" means belonging to something by its very nature; built-in; inherent. For example, "the intrinsic value of honesty" or "an intrinsic property of a material". The opposite idea is something that is not naturally part of something, but is gained or learned from outside. Therefore, we are looking for a word that expresses "not inborn but learned or added later". Among the options, "acquired" has exactly that sense. The method is to compare each option with the definition of intrinsic and see whether it reinforces the meaning (a synonym) or reverses it (an antonym).

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that "intrinsic" = inherent, natural, essential to the thing itself. Step 2: Examine "elemental". Elemental means basic, fundamental or relating to the basic elements of something. That is very close in flavour to intrinsic, not opposite. Step 3: Examine "innate". Innate means inborn, existing from birth, which again is similar to intrinsic because it describes qualities that belong naturally to a person or thing. Step 4: Examine "connate". Connate means existing naturally since birth or from the beginning; it is another near synonym of innate and intrinsic. Step 5: Examine "acquired". Acquired means gained later, usually by effort, learning or experience. This clearly contrasts with inborn, inherent qualities. Step 6: Conclude that "acquired" is the correct antonym of "intrinsic".

Verification / Alternative check:
If you look up a thesaurus, common synonyms of intrinsic include inherent, inborn, innate, essential, fundamental. Antonyms generally listed include extrinsic and acquired. While extrinsic is not among the options, "acquired" is, and it fits perfectly as something developed over time instead of being present from the start. This independent check confirms that acquired is the intended answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• elemental: Suggests fundamental or basic, which is conceptually close to intrinsic, not opposite.
• innate: Means inborn or natural from birth, strongly reinforcing the idea of intrinsic qualities.
• connate: Also means existing naturally or from birth, another near synonym to intrinsic rather than an antonym.

Common Pitfalls:
Because three of the four options look and feel similar to "intrinsic", some students mistakenly think the question might be asking for a synonym instead of an antonym and choose one of those. Always read the instruction line carefully: "Select the antonym" means you must search for the word that introduces the opposite concept. Paying attention to small instruction words like "synonym" versus "antonym" is crucial in vocabulary questions.

Final Answer:
The antonym of "intrinsic" is acquired.