Be/be born/be made that way Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Figurative Use Describes personality traits from birth, not physical characteristics. He's always been stubborn; he was born that way. Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal Often used metaphorically to explain deep-rooted aspects of someone's nature. She's not shy; she was born that way—a natural performer. Pro Tip 3/3Emotionally Charged Can express acceptance of one's inherent nature or traits. Don't fault him for his quirks; he was born that way.