English idiom

second nature

Register · Neutral CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

a learned skill or habit that has become automatic and effortless

Why this phrase?

Practice creates an acquired way of acting that feels as natural as an inborn instinct.

Example

“After years of practice, checking the mirrors became second nature.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

as a rule

usually or in most situations

back to basics

returning to the simple, fundamental principles of an activity

get up to speed

to become informed or current on a topic, project, or situation

hit the books

to study hard, especially before an exam

learn the ropes

To learn how to do a job or task properly.

once in a while

occasionally, but not often

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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