second nature

USAGE SUMMARY

"second nature" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
"Second nature" is an idiom which means something that has become so familiar or intuitive to a person that it is virtually automatic. You can use it to describe a situation where a previously difficult task or concept has become easier for a person to understand or do. For example, "After practicing every day for weeks, playing the piano has become second nature to her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's second nature.

The New York Times - Sports

"It becomes second nature".

The New York Times

Stubbornness was second nature.

The New York Times

Driving is second nature".

The New York Times

It has become second nature.

Independent

It will become second nature".

The New York Times

Appeasement is its second nature.

The Economist

They should become second nature.

Independent

It became second nature.

The Guardian - Sport

Fury is second nature.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

These behaviors become second-nature.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "second nature" to emphasize how a skill or behavior has become effortless due to repetition or practice. This shows a high level of proficiency.

Common error

Avoid using "second nature" to describe talents or abilities that are inherent. This phrase applies only to acquired skills that have become automatic through practice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "second nature" functions as a noun phrase that describes a skill, habit, or behavior that has become automatic or instinctive through repeated practice. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment, where the examples showcase its role in indicating effortless proficiency.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

16%

Huffington Post

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

The Guardian - Sport

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "second nature" describes a skill or behavior that has become automatic through practice. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread usage, highlighting its appearance in diverse sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and WikiHow. While applicable across various registers, it's crucial to reserve it for acquired skills, not innate talents. Mastering this distinction and using "second nature" appropriately will enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

automatic response

Highlights the reflexive, immediate quality of the action.

habitual behavior

A more clinical term for an action performed regularly and automatically.

ingrained habit

Focuses on the habitual aspect, emphasizing how the behavior is deeply rooted.

instinctive reaction

Suggests a response that is based on innate knowledge or feeling.

deep-seated habit

Emphasizes the long-term establishment of the behavior.

effortless skill

Highlights the lack of difficulty in performing the action.

natural inclination

Suggests an inherent tendency or preference that feels instinctive.

muscle memory

Specifically refers to the motor skills acquired through repetitive practice.

intuitively obvious

Focuses on the ease and clarity with which something is understood or done.

second-hand knowledge

Refers to a skill learned so well through observation or experience.

FAQs

How can I use "second nature" in a sentence?

You can use "second nature" to describe a skill or behavior that has become automatic through practice. For instance, "After years of coding, it's become "second nature" to me".

What are some alternatives to saying "second nature"?

Alternatives include "ingrained habit", "automatic response", or "habitual behavior" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "seconds nature" instead of "second nature"?

No, "seconds nature" is not a correct alternative. The correct phrase is "second nature", which implies that something has become automatic or instinctive.

What's the difference between "second nature" and "natural talent"?

"Second nature" refers to a skill developed through practice, while "natural talent" is an innate ability. Something that is "second nature" is learned; a natural talent is inherent.