Meaning

Primary

Instinct

Word Type

noun, の adjective

Explanation

The abilities you originally start out with are instincts. Animals have lots of them because they aren't very good at learning. They have to start out knowing them from the start.

Reading

ほんのう
  • Kyoko
    (Tokyo accent, female)
  • Kenichi
    (Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word that uses the on'yomi readings of the kanji. You should be able to read this on your own.

Context

Common Word Combinations

  • 本能がそなわる

    to be endowed with an instinct for

    本能がある

    to have an instinct for

    本能が働く

    one's instincts kick in

Context Sentences

動物は本能的に火をおそれるが、コウイチは例外だった。

Animals have an instinctive fear of fire, but Koichi was an exception.

いつも、生まれもった本能のおもむくままにできるだけしたがうようにしています。

I always try to rely on my innate instincts as much as possible.

熊は、動物の本能で危険を察知した。

The bear sensed danger with its animal instincts.

Kanji Composition