# genetic lottery

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/genetic-lottery
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The concept that any advantageous or disadvantageous genetic traits and abilities that a person inherits from their parents are largely determined by chance.

## Examples

- He is tall and fast, thanks to the genetic lottery.
- Some people are born with natural musical talent, which is just the luck of the genetic lottery.
- While she worked hard to refine her skills, she acknowledged that her exceptional physical health was largely a fortunate outcome of the genetic lottery.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.