本性

běn xìng
innate nature

每个人都有自己的本性。

Everyone has their own innate nature.


general

The inherent or natural character of a person or thing; the fundamental qualities that define someone or something.

他的本性是善良的,即使在困难时刻也不会改变。

His innate nature is kind, and it doesn't change even in difficult times.

这只猫的本性是好奇,总是喜欢探索新环境。

This cat's innate nature is curiosity; it always likes to explore new environments.

Often used to describe personality traits that are deeply ingrained and not easily changed.

Collocations

本性难移one's nature is hard to change真实本性true nature表现本性reveal one's true nature

Related Phrases

本性难移idiom
one's nature is hard to change
性本善phrase
human nature is inherently good

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

In Chinese philosophy, '本性' is often discussed in relation to Confucian or Daoist ideas about human nature.

Gold Rule

Usage in Psychology

In modern psychology, '本性' is often used to describe innate personality traits that are stable over time.

Word Origin

Composed of '本' (root, origin) and '性' (nature, character), emphasizing the fundamental qualities of something.

Usage Notes

Can be used to describe both positive and negative traits, depending on context. Often used in philosophical or psychological discussions.

Word Breakdown

root, origin
root
+
nature, character
root
汉英词典