What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
natal
Example
She returned to her natal town after living abroad for many years. [natal: adjective]
Example
The natal care center provides support and resources for new mothers. [natal: noun]
Example
The natal instincts of the mother cat kicked in when she saw her newborn kittens. [natal: adjective]
native
Example
She is a native of New York City. [native: noun]
Example
The native flora and fauna of the region are unique and diverse. [native: adjective]
Example
He speaks Spanish fluently as it is his native language. [native: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Native is more commonly used than natal in everyday language and has a wider range of meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between natal and native?
Native is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while natal is more formal and less commonly used.
