天生

• Pinyin: tiān shēng
• Hanzi breakdown: 天 = 一 + 大 — heaven; 生 = to be born, life

Meaning

Innate; born with; natural from birth.

Describes qualities, abilities, or characteristics that one possesses from birth rather than acquiring through effort. Can apply to physical traits, personality, or talents. Often used to emphasize something is inherent rather than learned.

Examples

1. 她天生丽质，不化妆也很好看。 She's naturally beautiful — she looks good even without makeup.
2. 有些人天生乐观，遇到困难也能保持积极心态。 Some people are born optimistic and can stay positive even when facing difficulties.
3. 他天生就是当领导的料，从小就有号召力。 He's a born leader — he's had charisma since childhood.

Usage Guide

Context: description, personality, appearance

Tone: descriptive

Do Say

• 她是天生的美人。(She's a natural beauty.)
• 他天生就这样。(He was born that way.)

Don't Say

• 把后天习得的技能说成'天生' (Don't call acquired skills 天生 — it specifically means inborn)

Origin & History

天 means heaven, 生 means born or life — born from heaven, innate.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal