Natural affection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Natural affection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a genuine emotional bond or love that arises naturally between individuals, often in familial or close relationships. Example: "The natural affection between the siblings was evident as they supported each other through difficult times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Philostorgy means natural affection.

The New Yorker

A Valentine's Day tweet from Barack to Michelle evoked their natural affection and mutual respect.

The New Yorker

His later plays A Loss of Roses (1960; filmed as The Stripper, 1963), Natural Affection (1963), Where's Daddy?

Encyclopedia Britannica

They were not only Opinionative, Peevish, Covetous, Morose, Vain, Talkative, but uncapable of Friendship, and dead to all natural Affection...

The New Yorker

The top-grossing movies have become a regular feature of news reports, encouraging Hollywood's natural affection for megahits.

The New York Times

NATURAL AFFECTION A young man returns home from a reform school stay to find that his single mother is living with a new man.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

His vigilance in his attention to his only child, continually, day and night, have strongly exhibited the strength of natural affections, equaled only by his gratitude for the relief afforded his daughter.

Yale University

As a love poet, he developed a fresh and original treatment of the situations of courtly love and, ultimately, in such poems as the popular "Unter der Linden," achieved a free, uninhibited style in which the poses of court society gave way before the natural affections of village folk.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Unskilled, low-paid work, depending upon an archaic notion of the "natural" affections of women, nothing speaks more truthfully of our indifference to those who require not efficiency or productivity gains (that, after all, is the rationale behind recourse to gastrostomy, feeding tubes attached to the stomach), but tenderness and the touch of loving hands.

The Guardian - Opinion

So when we subject affections to moral judgment, we approve most highly of the natural affections.

SEP

Those that evoke approving moral sentiments are the other-directed, natural affections.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Natural affection" to describe inherent, unlearned feelings of love and attachment, particularly within families or close relationships. It conveys a sense of innate connection.

Common error

Avoid using "Natural affection" to describe fleeting attractions or superficial liking. This phrase denotes a deeper, more fundamental bond, not a casual preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Natural affection" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a type of feeling or bond. Ludwig AI confirms this usage aligns with established grammatical conventions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Natural affection" is a noun phrase commonly used to describe the innate feelings of love and attachment, especially within families. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and general usability. While found in varied contexts, it frequently appears in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias. To convey related sentiments, consider alternatives like "innate love" or "familial love". When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a deep, fundamental bond rather than superficial liking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Innate love

Emphasises the inborn quality of love, differing from affection that might develop over time.

Instinctive affection

Highlights the role of instinct in driving affection, suggesting an automatic response.

Familial love

Specifically refers to the love within a family, narrowing the scope of natural affection.

Parental love

Focuses on the love a parent feels for their child, a specific type of natural affection.

Filial piety

Highlights the respect and duty children owe their parents, a more formal aspect of familial affection.

Inherent compassion

Emphasises the compassionate aspect of natural affection, broadening the focus beyond personal bonds.

Unconditional love

Emphasizes the boundless and unwavering nature of affection, irrespective of circumstances or actions.

Warm regard

Suggests a more gentle and considerate type of affection, often used in formal contexts.

Heartfelt fondness

Highlights the genuine and deep-seated nature of affection, emphasizing emotional depth.

Genuine tenderness

Focuses on the soft and caring aspects of affection, often expressed through gentle actions.

FAQs

How can I use "Natural affection" in a sentence?

You can use "Natural affection" to describe the innate love and care between family members. For example, "The "natural affection" between a parent and child is a powerful bond."

What's the difference between "Natural affection" and "Romantic love"?

"Natural affection" typically describes the bond between family members, while "romantic love" involves passion and attraction between partners.

Is "Natural affection" always positive?

Generally, yes. "Natural affection" refers to positive feelings of love and care. However, its absence can be a significant issue, as noted in some literary or philosophical discussions.

What are some signs of "Natural affection" in families?

Signs include acts of kindness, emotional support, physical touch like hugs, and a general sense of empathy and understanding between family members.