a natural tendency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a natural tendency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an inherent inclination or predisposition towards a particular behavior or action. Example: "Many people have a natural tendency to seek comfort in familiar routines during stressful times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But I think kids have a natural tendency to thrive.

The Guardian - Film

"There's a natural tendency for everyone to think they're ordinary.

The Guardian - Money

He targeted those with a natural tendency to trust him.

The Economist

To him urbanisation was not a natural tendency.

The Economist

Audiences, after all, feel a natural tendency to identify with the person on the screen.

The New York Times

"This is a natural tendency, but the effect of the recession has accelerated the process".

The New York Times

"Bureaucracies have a natural tendency not to coöperate, coördinate, or to consolidate with each other.

The New Yorker

"There's a natural tendency to think that smaller is better," Dr. Crow said.

The New York Times

Businesses have a natural tendency to grow more complex as they mature.

The Economist

There is a natural tendency for both sides to move towards the middle.

The Economist

At a time of war, there is a natural tendency to rally round the president.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a common human behavior, use "a natural tendency" to emphasize that it is an inherent part of human nature.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a natural tendency" as an unchangeable destiny. While it indicates an inherent inclination, it doesn't preclude the possibility of intervention or modification through conscious effort or external factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a natural tendency" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an inherent or innate inclination towards a specific behavior or outcome. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a usable and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a natural tendency" is a versatile phrase used to describe inherent inclinations or predispositions across a wide range of contexts. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. It appears most frequently in news and media, science and encyclopedias sources. When using this phrase, avoid implying inevitability, as conscious effort can modify natural tendencies. Semantically related alternatives include "an inherent inclination" and "an innate predisposition". Understanding the nuance of "a natural tendency" allows for more precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inherent inclination

Emphasizes the innate quality of the inclination.

an innate predisposition

Highlights a pre-existing inclination from birth.

a built-in propensity

Suggests an inherent characteristic that favors a particular outcome.

an inborn inclination

Stresses the aspect of being born with the inclination.

a native predisposition

Focuses on the inherent, almost instinctual nature of the predisposition.

a characteristic inclination

Highlights that the inclination is a typical trait.

a typical inclination

Suggests a common or expected pattern of behavior.

a common predisposition

Emphasizes that the predisposition is frequently observed.

an instinctive inclination

Underscores the role of instinct in driving the inclination.

a spontaneous tendency

Focuses on the unprompted and immediate nature of the tendency.

FAQs

What does "a natural tendency" mean?

The phrase "a natural tendency" refers to an inherent inclination or predisposition towards a particular behavior, feeling, or outcome. It suggests that something is likely to happen or be done without external prompting or influence.

How can I use "a natural tendency" in a sentence?

You can use "a natural tendency" to describe inherent inclinations. For instance, "There is "a natural tendency" for people to seek comfort in familiar routines during stressful times."

What are some alternatives to "a natural tendency"?

Alternatives include "an inherent inclination", "an innate predisposition", or "a built-in propensity", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of the inclination.

Is it correct to say "natural tendency" without the article "a"?

While grammatically acceptable in certain contexts, using "a natural tendency" is generally preferred for clarity and specificity. Omitting the article can sometimes make the phrase sound less idiomatic or more abstract.