There CAN be a difference, depending on context. Peerages are not passed down genetically though they may be inherited. The colour of my eyes was undeniably passed to me genetically, and it's also fine to say I inherited it. It means the same thing. The two words are synonyms as I understand them in this context. Can't speak for Jeri but she took up the matter by assuming that synonymy, judging from the heading for her links. I'm all for clarity. I'm challenging the notion that alcoholism, recognised as an illness, is passed down either in the same way as peerages OR genetically. Once you start talking about the transmission of illnesses you are in the realms of science. And when I say I'm challenging the notion, I'm not dismissing the notion, merely requesting some solid evidence. I'm not convinced so far, that's all.