Meaning and Usage
"生まれつき" (umaretsuki) means "by nature" or "by birth," referring to qualities or conditions that a person has from birth, often innate or congenital traits.
Common Contexts
It is frequently used to describe physical traits (like eyesight or health), talents, or personality characteristics that are considered inherent rather than acquired.
Collocations and Patterns
- 生まれつきの才能 (umaretsuki no sainou): innate talent
- 生まれつきの病気 (umaretsuki no byouki): congenital disease
- 生まれつき目が悪い (umaretsuki me ga warui): poor eyesight from birth
Register and Nuance
This word is neutral in formality and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. It emphasizes that a trait is natural and not learned or developed later.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 生まれつき with 生まれる (to be born) alone. Remember that 生まれつき specifically refers to something inherent from birth, not just the act of being born.