a general inclination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a general inclination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a broad tendency or preference towards something, often in a more abstract or philosophical context. Example: "There is a general inclination among researchers to explore the effects of climate change on biodiversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

But concern with the anti-Roman influence of the Druid priesthood, which he tried to suppress in Gaul, and a general inclination toward expanding the frontiers were other reasons.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We therefore could summarize this finding as a general inclination to have a global level of functioning that decreased in subjects with ageing.

EJNMMI Research

Also, there is now a general inclination to use blockchain in other fields, including IoT, the supply chain, stock exchange, gaming and other domains where secure data transactions are important.

TechCrunch

"In the first place," the philosopher famously wrote, "I put for a general inclination of all mankind, a perpetual inclination of all mankind for power after power, that ceaseth only in death.

BBC

We find remarkably little evidence of any systematic gender differences in preferences, and a general inclination towards an equal distribution of housework; this suggests that the reasons for the gendered division of housework do not derive from gender differences in preferences, and must lie elsewhere.

Social Science Research

Due to the long hours of work needed to finish one traditional dress or shawl, many of the Siwan garments are rarely used today, with a general inclination to buy regular dresses which girls see as more fashionable and up-to-date.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Political disputes may arise where public opinion on an issue is strong enough to outweigh any general inclination to sympathize with Trump.

Huffington Post

In the sagittal plane, at the first toe off, the pelvis and lumbar area moves the trunk in a general forward inclination, to reach its maximum at first heel on (Fig. 6).

Plosone

Also a general cultural inclination to formalize practices in the Netherlands may explain why SCEN is more regulated [ 32].

BMC Health Services Research

Instead, the lies they were fed in the referendum campaign and their general inclination to be unhappy under a right-of-center government will probably work together to hike their general sense of dissatisfaction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is not true that the English have completely ignored this area: John Ruskin spent productive time hereabouts and modern Le Touquet has a notable number of English-registered Porsches, but the general inclination for travellers by road is to get through the area as quickly as possible.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a general inclination" to describe widespread tendencies or preferences within a specific group or context. It suggests a broad trend rather than an individual's specific choice.

Common error

Avoid using "a general inclination" to describe a single person's preference. This phrase is better suited for describing trends or tendencies across a larger group or population.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a general inclination" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig, it denotes a common or widespread tendency or preference.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a general inclination" is a noun phrase used to describe a widespread tendency or preference. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. It's important to use the phrase when referring to broad trends rather than individual preferences. Alternatives include "a common tendency" and "a widespread preference". As such, using "a general inclination" appropriately enhances clarity when discussing prevailing trends or predispositions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a common tendency

Focuses on the shared nature of the tendency, emphasizing widespread occurrence.

a prevalent disposition

Highlights the widespread presence of the underlying attitude or temperament.

a typical leaning

Emphasizes the usual or expected direction of preference or behavior.

a widespread preference

Underscores the broad acceptance or favor towards something.

a common bent

Suggests a natural or inherent tendency in a particular direction.

a general propensity

Implies a natural inclination or predisposition toward a certain behavior.

a prevailing trend

Highlights the current direction or fashion that is widely adopted.

a natural urge

Focuses on an instinctive or innate impulse.

a basic impulse

Emphasizes the fundamental or root inclination.

a usual habit

Highlights the customary or routine behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "a general inclination" in a sentence?

You can use "a general inclination" to describe a widespread tendency or preference, as in, "There's a general inclination towards using renewable energy sources."

What's a good substitute for "a general inclination"?

Alternatives to "a general inclination" include "a common tendency", "a prevalent disposition", or "a widespread preference", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a general inclination" in formal writing?

Yes, "a general inclination" is suitable for formal writing. It's often used in academic, scientific, and professional contexts to describe trends or widespread behaviors.

How does "a general inclination" differ from "a specific preference"?

"A general inclination" refers to a widespread tendency or preference among a group, while "a specific preference" refers to an individual's choice or liking. The former is about a trend, the latter about a personal choice.