human nature

American  

noun

1. the psychological and social qualities that characterize humankind, especially in contrast with other living things.

2. Sociology. the character of human conduct, generally regarded as produced by living in primary groups.

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human nature British  

noun

1. the qualities common to humanity

2. ordinary human behaviour, esp considered as less than perfect

3. sociol the unique elements that form a basic part of human life and distinguish it from other animal life

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Etymology

Origin of human nature

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

It’s human nature to want to chase the stocks up the most and sell after large pullbacks, but letting emotions drive decisions is a recipe for underperformance.

From Barron's

The optimal New Year’s resolution works with human nature rather than trying to defy it, respecting the limits of motivation and leveraging the power of behavioral economics.

From The Wall Street Journal

It’s human nature to delay the bill as long as possible.

From MarketWatch

In just 77 minutes, the film imparts immense wisdom about human nature and the stories that we take with us wherever we go.

From Salon

Part of the problem is that AI feeds on the internet, often a flurry of junk, and was designed by people who lack a foundational understanding of natural law and human nature.

From The Wall Street Journal