Meaning
天生 describes qualities or characteristics that a person or thing is born with, rather than acquired through learning or experience. It emphasizes that something is inherent from birth or by nature. The word combines 天 (heaven/nature) and 生 (born), literally meaning 'born by heaven.'
Usage
Commonly used before adjectives or after the subject to describe natural talents, physical traits, or personality characteristics. Often appears in the patterns 天生的 or 天生就. Can carry either positive connotations (natural talent) or neutral observations about unchangeable traits. Frequently used when discussing abilities, appearance, or temperament.
Examples
- 01她天生就有音乐天赋。.She was born with musical talent.
- 02他天生的领导能力让大家都很佩服。.Everyone admires his natural leadership ability.
Characters
Common collocations
- 天生的innate, natural (modifier)
- 天生就naturally, born to be
- 天生丽质naturally beautiful
- 天生一对a match made in heaven
Antonyms
Origin
The combination literally means 'heaven-born' or 'born by nature,' reflecting traditional Chinese philosophy that certain qualities are bestowed by heaven at birth.