What is the government's inherent power to take private property for public use called?

The government's inherent power to take private property for public use is called eminent domain. This legal concept allows the government to acquire private land for public purposes, such as building roads, schools, or parks, as long as the property owner is compensated fairly. This power is rooted in the understanding that while individuals have rights to their property, the needs of the community can sometimes necessitate the use of that property for the greater good.

Eminent domain reflects a fundamental balance between individual rights and the needs of society, ensuring that while property owners have control over their property, the government can intervene when necessary to serve public interests. Compensation is a crucial element of eminent domain; it ensures that property owners are not left disadvantaged by the government's actions.

Zoning pertains to land use regulations set by local governments and does not involve the taking of property but rather dictates how land can be used. Expropriation is similar in concept but is more commonly used in different legal systems and may not always involve compensation. Leasehold relates to a temporary right to use property owned by another, typically through a rental agreement, rather than a government take-over for public use.