nature

Everything in the world that exists without being made by people, including plants, animals, land, and weather.

• We must protect nature.
• Nature provides food for many animals.
• The storm reminded us of the power of nature.

Similar words: the natural world

Common phrases: protect nature, laws of nature, forces of nature

The countryside and other outdoor places where plants and animals live.

• We love spending time in nature.
• The nature trail leads through a forest.
• Children need more chances to explore nature.

Similar words: the outdoors

Common phrases: in nature, nature walk, nature trail

The feelings and qualities that a person or thing has naturally.

• She has a kind nature.
• Dogs are curious by nature.
• His gentle nature makes him good with children.

How to use it: by nature (He is quiet by nature.)

Similar words: character, temperament

Common phrases: gentle nature, human nature, by nature, in someone’s nature

The basic kind of something, or the features that show what it is like.

• What is the nature of your work?
• The exact nature of the illness is unknown.
• They discussed the changing nature of family life.

How to use it: the nature of something (We need to understand the nature of the problem.)

Similar words: type, kind, character

Common phrases: nature of something, exact nature, general nature