a predilection for

USAGE SUMMARY

"a predilection for" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means a strong liking or preference for something. Some examples of how to use it in a sentence are: - She has a predilection for spicy food, so she always orders the hottest dish on the menu. - The artist's work shows a clear predilection for using bright colors and bold lines. - Despite her family's history in law, she discovered a predilection for pursuing a career in medicine. - His upbringing in a small town gave him a predilection for simple, rustic flavors. - I have a predilection for classic literature, so I always gravitate towards the classic section in the bookstore.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Conversely, rectal melanoma showed a predilection for liver (n = 3) and peritoneal (n = 2) involvement.

Cancer Imaging

Scientists, like all tribes, have a predilection for foundation myths.

The Guardian - Books

Prime 66 also had a predilection for technology stocks.

The New York Times

He also has a predilection for the loud.

The New York Times - Arts

Gruiform birds have a predilection for travel on foot.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I knew that she had a predilection for Dubonnet.

Independent

He added that, as an Australian, he had a predilection for these wines.

The New York Times - Food

I observe that Mona's marketing team seem to have a predilection for black.

The Guardian - Arts

Ms. Weinberg, who had a predilection for grungy types, liked what she saw.

The New York Times - Style

(An unrepentant omnivore, Ms. Anthony had a predilection for porterhouse steak).

The New York Times

Of course that could reflect fear of a mayor with a predilection for exacting retribution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the preferences of a group or population, consider specifying the context or domain in which the predilection is observed. For example, "teenagers have a predilection for social media".

Common error

While "a predilection for" is a perfectly valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in informal contexts. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural. Simpler alternatives like "a liking for" or "a preference for" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a predilection for" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes a tendency or preference, often implying a long-standing or deeply ingrained liking, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a predilection for" is a versatile and commonly used phrase to express a strong liking or preference. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples spanning various contexts, including News & Media and Science. While alternatives like "a fondness for" or "a preference for" exist, "a predilection for" often implies a more profound or idiosyncratic inclination. When using this phrase, consider your audience and the overall formality of your writing. Overuse can lead to a stilted tone, but in the right context, it adds precision and nuance to your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preference for

Suggests a choice based on liking one thing over another, often implying a reasoned decision.

a penchant for

Suggests a strong attraction or habitual liking, similar in intensity to "predilection".

a proclivity for

Highlights a natural or habitual inclination toward something, often implying a potential negative consequence.

a fondness for

Implies a gentle affection or liking, slightly less intense than a strong preference.

an affinity for

Denotes a natural liking or connection, often suggesting a deeper understanding or appreciation.

an inclination towards

Indicates a natural tendency or leaning in a certain direction.

a taste for

Implies a refined appreciation or enjoyment of something, often used for cultural or aesthetic preferences.

a liking for

A general term for enjoying something, less formal and intense than "predilection".

a bias toward

Indicates a tendency to favor something, often unconsciously or unfairly.

a weakness for

Suggests an inability to resist something, often something pleasurable or indulgent.

FAQs

How can I use "a predilection for" in a sentence?

You can use "a predilection for" to describe someone's strong liking or preference. For example, "She has "a predilection for" vintage clothing" or "The company shows "a predilection for" innovative technologies".

What are some alternatives to "a predilection for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a fondness for", "a preference for", "an inclination towards", or "a penchant for".

Is it correct to say "predilection to" instead of "predilection for"?

While "predilection" can be followed by different prepositions in certain contexts, "a predilection for" is the most common and generally preferred usage when indicating a liking or preference. "Predilection to" is less common and may sound unnatural to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "a predilection for" and "a propensity for"?

Both phrases indicate a tendency, but "a predilection for" suggests a liking or preference, while "a propensity for" implies a natural inclination or tendency, often towards something negative. For example, you might have "a predilection for" classical music, but "a propensity for" making careless mistakes.