practically born

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "practically born" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that someone or something has been created or has come into existence in a way that feels very close to being born, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "After years of research and development, the new technology feels practically born, ready to revolutionize the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

They're practically born bilateral breathing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was practically born in the saddle.

The New York Times

Price was practically born into the business.

The Guardian - Tech

Ms. Yoo was practically born into La MaMa's family.

The New York Times

"I was practically born here," Ms. Torres said.

The New York Times

He was practically born in a committee room," she says.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

But to practically anyone born in the 70s or 80s, it's the Triforce, and it represents Nintendo, old school gaming, childhood, and so on.

TechCrunch

United States v. Wong Kim Ark,, is a United States Supreme Court case in which the Court ruled that practically everyone born in the United States is a U.S. citizen.

Wikipedia

He experiments with other people's birth dates and finds that practically everybody is born under a lucky star, and hopes the entire population of Manhattan won't take advantage of the dance studio offer.

The New Yorker

I've lived here practically since I was born.

The New Yorker

I mean, it's practically what I was born to do.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "practically born", ensure that the context clearly indicates a strong, early association or inherent connection, whether literal or metaphorical. This phrase is most effective when emphasizing a natural inclination or early exposure to a particular field or environment.

Common error

Avoid using "practically born" in contexts where a simple 'raised' or 'brought up' would suffice. The phrase implies an almost innate connection or destiny, so it should be reserved for situations where this sense of inherent association is crucial to the meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "practically born" functions as an adverbial modifier, intensifying the connection between a person and an activity, place, or idea. It suggests that the person's involvement began so early in life that it feels almost innate. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across varied sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "practically born" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey a deep and early association with a particular field, environment, or skill. Ludwig AI validates its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its register is mostly neutral, its figurative nature leans towards a slightly informal tone. Remember to reserve its usage for scenarios where you aim to underscore the inherently strong connection formed since early life.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

virtually raised

Emphasizes the upbringing and environment rather than innate characteristics. The meaning is similar but focuses on nurture.

almost bred

Implies a cultivation or training from an early age toward a specific trait or skill. More formal and less common.

raised as if

Focuses on the manner of upbringing, highlighting the conditions one experienced from childhood. The meaning is similar, but it specifies the nurturing aspect.

brought up to be

Emphasizes the intention and actions in raising someone toward a particular path. Focuses on upbringing and intent.

nearly destined

Suggests a preordained or very likely outcome from birth. Shifts focus to destiny.

groomed from youth

Indicates deliberate preparation and training from a young age. More formal and less general.

in essence created

Highlights the formative influence, as if something was shaped from the start. The meaning is similar, but it can refer to less specific aspects.

immersed from infancy

Suggests deep involvement and exposure from a very early age. Specific and less interchangeable.

nurtured since inception

Focuses on care and development from the very beginning, more formal tone. More specific in meaning.

developed from scratch

Focuses on the aspect of growth and advancement from an initial state. More appropriate for describing things.

FAQs

How can I use "practically born" in a sentence?

You can use "practically born" to describe someone who has been closely associated with something since their early years. For example, "She was "practically born" into the world of ballet, having started dancing at the age of three."

What does "practically born" mean?

The phrase "practically born" suggests that someone has been involved with or exposed to something for almost their entire life, indicating a very strong and early connection.

Which is correct, "practically born" or "literally born"?

"Literally born" refers to the actual act of birth, while "practically born" is a figurative expression indicating a very early and influential association. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

What can I say instead of "practically born"?

You can use alternatives like "virtually raised", "nearly destined", or "brought up to be" depending on the context.