a predisposition for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a predisposition for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tendency or inclination towards a particular behavior, condition, or characteristic. Example: "She has a predisposition for developing allergies, which runs in her family."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I must admit to having a predisposition for this book.

The New York Times - Books

We inherit a predisposition for such phobia, which a parent can easily trigger.

The New York Times - Science

Myriad Genetics sells a test to determine whether women have a predisposition for breast cancer.

The New York Times

Such prophets are esteemed by coreligionists to have a predisposition for such unusual sensations.

Britannica

It is already possible to check embryos for a gene that will show a predisposition for Alzheimer's.

The New York Times

"I have had a predisposition for love of jihad and martyrdom since I was little," he said.

The New Yorker

Could the lack of fat in her diet interacted with a predisposition for Alzheimer's?

The New York Times

Going every night allows you to try things you may not have a predisposition for".

The New York Times - Arts

But those with a predisposition for anorexia have a completely different experience: starvation makes them feel better.

The Guardian

He had a predisposition for transcendental thoughts, which came from his father, a Thoreau devotee who teaches in Trumbull's school system.

The New York Times

If you inherited red hair — or a predisposition for breast cancer — from your mother, chances were that you inherited a gene that helped produce that trait.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing health or genetics, use "a predisposition for" to accurately convey an increased risk, not a certainty. For example, someone may have "a predisposition for" a certain disease, but lifestyle and environmental factors also play a role.

Common error

Avoid implying that a predisposition guarantees a specific outcome. Predisposition indicates an increased likelihood, while predestination suggests an unavoidable fate. Use "a predisposition for" to suggest increased risk, not guaranteed certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a predisposition for" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes an inherent tendency or increased likelihood towards a particular condition, behavior, or characteristic. Ludwig provides examples across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a predisposition for" is a noun phrase used to describe an increased likelihood or inherent tendency towards something, without implying certainty. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is commonly found in scientific and news contexts. It's important to differentiate "a predisposition for" from "predestination", using it to suggest increased risk rather than guaranteed outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Related phrases like "a propensity for" and "a tendency for" can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a propensity for

This alternative suggests a natural inclination or tendency, similar to a predisposition, but may imply a slightly stronger leaning.

a tendency for

This phrase directly indicates a likelihood or inclination towards something, closely mirroring the meaning of a predisposition.

a susceptibility to

This suggests a vulnerability or openness to being affected by something, emphasizing a lack of resistance.

an inclination toward

This alternative highlights a leaning or preference, often suggesting a mild tendency or favor.

a proclivity for

Similar to predisposition, but often implies a more inherent or innate tendency.

a bent toward

This phrase suggests a natural talent or inclination, often in a specific direction or area.

a likelihood of

This emphasizes the probability or chance of something occurring, focusing on the potential outcome.

a vulnerability to

This suggests a weakness or increased risk of being affected by something, highlighting potential harm.

a predilection for

Similar to predisposition, but carries a stronger sense of personal preference or liking.

a leaning toward

This indicates a slight preference or tendency, often implying a mild inclination.

FAQs

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

You can use "a predisposition for" to indicate an increased likelihood of developing a certain condition or exhibiting a particular behavior. For example: "She has "a predisposition for developing allergies"." or "He shows "a predisposition for leadership"."

What's the difference between "a predisposition for" and "a tendency for"?

While similar, "a predisposition for" often implies a genetic or inherent inclination, whereas "a tendency for" can refer to a learned or behavioral pattern. Predisposition has a stronger connotation of an innate quality.

Are "a predisposition for" and "a susceptibility to" interchangeable?

Not always. "A susceptibility to" emphasizes vulnerability to external factors or influences, whereas "a predisposition for" highlights an internal or inherent inclination. You might have "a predisposition for" a disease due to genetics and "a susceptibility to" infection due to a weakened immune system.

What are some common examples of things people have "a predisposition for"?

People can have "a predisposition for" various conditions and traits, including diseases like "diabetes", "cancer", or "heart disease". They can also have "a predisposition for" certain behaviors or talents, such as "music" or "mathematics".