I'm inclined to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I'm inclined to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate that one is likely to do or agree with something. For example, "I'm inclined to accept the job offer, as it meets my criteria for a successful career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I'm inclined to agree.

The New York Times

Now I'm inclined to agree.

The Economist

"I'm inclined to consider both.

The New York Times

I'm inclined to believe them".

The New York Times

But I'm inclined to be charitable.

The Economist

I'm inclined to think so.

The New York Times

I'm inclined to spoil my ballot paper".

Independent

I'm inclined to the opposite approach.

The Guardian - Books

I'm inclined to work on dark things.

The Guardian - Arts

I'm inclined to believe it will last.

The Guardian - Opinion

So goes one revisionist rationale, which I'm inclined to endorse.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I'm inclined to" when you want to express a tentative agreement or a leaning towards a particular viewpoint. It's less assertive than stating a firm belief.

Common error

Avoid using "I'm inclined to" too frequently in your writing, as it can make your tone seem indecisive. Vary your expressions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I'm inclined to" functions as a hedge, softening the assertion of an opinion or intention. It introduces a degree of uncertainty or tentativeness, making the statement less forceful. Ludwig examples show its use in expressing agreement, belief, and potential actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I'm inclined to" is a versatile expression used to convey a leaning towards a particular opinion or action without stating it definitively. As highlighted by Ludwig, it functions as a hedge, softening the assertion and allowing for a more nuanced communication. It is commonly found in News & Media, reflecting its suitability for expressing considered judgments and provisional beliefs. While grammatically correct and widely used, it's important to vary your language to prevent overuse. Remember, while expressing a tendency to agree or believe, leave room for flexibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I lean towards

Expresses a preference or tendency in a specific direction.

I tend to think

This alternative suggests a habitual way of thinking, similar to being inclined towards an opinion.

I'm of the opinion

This indicates a formed opinion, close to being inclined to believe something.

I'm apt to think

Indicates a likelihood or tendency to think in a certain way.

I'm disposed to believe

This suggests a natural tendency to believe something, similar to being inclined.

I'm predisposed to

Suggests a pre-existing tendency or inclination.

I'm beginning to think

This suggests a gradual shift in opinion, moving towards a particular viewpoint.

It is my belief

This expresses a personal conviction, akin to being inclined towards a belief.

I'm given to understand

Indicates that information has been received that leads to a particular belief.

I'm wont to believe

Expresses a habitual way of believing something, similar to being inclined.

FAQs

How can I use "I'm inclined to" in a sentence?

Use "I'm inclined to" to express a leaning toward a certain opinion or action. For example, "I'm inclined to agree with your assessment of the situation."

What are some alternatives to "I'm inclined to"?

You can use alternatives like "I tend to think", "I lean towards", or "I'm of the opinion depending on the context.

Is it better to say "I'm inclined to think" or "I think"?

"I'm inclined to think" suggests a more tentative or considered opinion compared to the more direct "I think". The choice depends on the level of certainty you wish to convey.

What does "I'm inclined to believe" mean?

"I'm inclined to believe" means you are leaning towards believing something, but you may not be entirely certain. It's a way to express a provisional belief.