Be in the genes
idiom
To be a natural characteristic because it is inherited, especially behavior or abilities.
My son is great at math. He didn't have to study for it. I guess it's just in his genes.
Often appears as...
- it's in his genes
- it's in her genes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To be a natural characteristic because it is inherited, especially behavior or abilities.
My son is great at math. He didn't have to study for it. I guess it's just in his genes.
Often appears as...
- it's in his genes
- it's in her genes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Inherited Traits
Refers to qualities or abilities passed down from parents to children through genes.
She has a talent for singing – it’s in the genes, as her mother was a vocalist.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Learned
Indicates an ability or trait not gained from experience or education, but from family inheritance.
Even without training, he's a fast runner. It must be in the genes.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Often used to suggest a trait is so strong it seems inherited, even if it’s not scientifically proven.
Her passion for justice is in her genes, much like her grandfather.
Pro Tip 1/3Inherited Traits
Refers to qualities or abilities passed down from parents to children through genes.
She has a talent for singing – it’s in the genes, as her mother was a vocalist.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Learned
Indicates an ability or trait not gained from experience or education, but from family inheritance.
Even without training, he's a fast runner. It must be in the genes.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Often used to suggest a trait is so strong it seems inherited, even if it’s not scientifically proven.
Her passion for justice is in her genes, much like her grandfather.
Pro Tip 1/3Inherited Traits
Refers to qualities or abilities passed down from parents to children through genes.
She has a talent for singing – it’s in the genes, as her mother was a vocalist.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Learned
Indicates an ability or trait not gained from experience or education, but from family inheritance.
Even without training, he's a fast runner. It must be in the genes.
Pro Tip 3/3Figurative Use
Often used to suggest a trait is so strong it seems inherited, even if it’s not scientifically proven.
Her passion for justice is in her genes, much like her grandfather.
Never forget "Be in the genes"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension