be born to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be born to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used when discussing one's destiny or fate. For example, "She was born to be a leader."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He feels that he may be "born to be Wilde".

The New Yorker

It seems likely that pretty soon most American children will be born to unmarried women.

The New York Times

"Not anyone can do this job," says Lela. "You must be born to do it.

The Guardian

It is first child to be born to a serving French president.

The Guardian

I wanted him to be born to I Am The Resurrection.

The Guardian - Film

The baby was the first to be born to the wife of a French president during his term of office.

Independent

Shamans are said to be born to their role, as is evident in certain marks distinguishing them from ordinary people.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Allbee interrupted him, saying that he shouldn't try to sing such songs: "You have to be born to them".

The New Yorker

Speaking to the Italian magazine Panorama, Dolce and Gabbana said children should be born to a mother and a father.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

What fortunate children, you might think, to be born to such a great champion of the compassionate human spirit.

The Guardian - Opinion

Demography experts predict that within the next five years the majority of British babies will be born to unmarried parents.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be born to", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to lineage/origin, destiny/fate, or inherent aptitude. This will enhance clarity and prevent misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "be born to" in contexts that imply privilege or entitlement. The phrase should not suggest that someone deserves special treatment solely based on their background, but rather that they may possess an innate quality or destiny.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be born to" functions as a verb phrase + preposition, indicating origin, destiny, or inherent qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English, often employed when discussing fate or innate characteristics. Examples in Ludwig show it describing lineage (born to a wealthy family) or inherent aptitude (born to be a leader).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be born to" is a versatile expression used to convey ideas of origin, destiny, or inherent aptitude. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage in English. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, "be born to" can indicate lineage, as in "be born to unmarried parents", or a perceived inherent quality, like "be born to be Wilde". While the phrase maintains a neutral register, it is most frequently encountered in News & Media, Encyclopedia, and Science contexts. It is important to consider that "be born to" can express privilege or entitlement depending on the context. For example, it’s far more effective to use phrases like "destined for", "naturally inclined to", or "cut out for" when talking about one's destiny. Also, it’s more appropriate to use phrases like "come from" or "descended from" to describe one's origin.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

destined for

Focuses on predetermined fate or purpose instead of origin.

innately suited for

Emphasizes inherent ability rather than lineage or circumstance.

naturally inclined to

Highlights a natural tendency toward something.

cut out for

Implies a perfect fit for a particular role or activity.

have a knack for

Suggests a talent or aptitude acquired naturally or easily.

bred for

Conveys the idea of being raised or trained for a specific purpose or role.

descended from

Stresses ancestral lineage rather than destiny.

come from

Indicates origin or background.

be a product of

Highlights the influence of environment or upbringing.

made for

Implies design or intention in creating something or someone for a specific purpose.

FAQs

How can I use "be born to" in a sentence?

You can use "be born to" to describe someone's destiny, origin, or inherent aptitude. For example, "She seems "destined for" greatness" or "He was "bred for" leadership".

What's the difference between "be born to" and "destined to"?

"Be born to" can imply origin or inherent qualities, while "destined to" focuses solely on a predetermined future. "He was "be born to" a wealthy family" indicates origin, whereas "He was "destined for" greatness" indicates fate.

Is it correct to say "born for" instead of "be born to"?

While "born for" is acceptable, it often suggests a specific purpose or role, whereas "be born to" can encompass a broader range of meanings, including lineage or inherent traits. Saying "She was "naturally inclined to" dance" is different from saying "She was "cut out for" a specific dance style".

Which is a better alternative to "be born to": "come from" or "descended from"?

The best alternative depends on the context. If emphasizing origin or background, use "come from". If highlighting ancestral lineage, use "descended from". For example, "He "come from" humble beginnings" versus "He is "descended from" royalty".