a predisposition to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a predisposition to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tendency or inclination towards a particular behavior, condition, or outcome. Example: "She has a predisposition to anxiety, which can be triggered by stressful situations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Is it a predisposition to be feckless and lazy?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Some states allow prosecutions as long as there was a "predisposition" to the conduct.

The New York Times

The result is a heady mix of paranoia, a predisposition to self-interest.

The Guardian

A predisposition to stress is heightened when pigs are raised in unstimulating environments, Dr. Grandin said.

The New York Times - Science

And in some families, it seems, a predisposition to autoimmunity is a box packed by Pandora.

The New York Times - Health

Many researchers now believe that a predisposition to the illness, which tends to run in families, may be genetic.

The New York Times - Health

Or, most commonly, they are seeking genetic variations that will tell us whether we have a predisposition to a disease.

The New York Times - Health

"This 'taster' activity is a more sensitive way of introducing service life and encouraging a predisposition to serve," it says.

The Guardian

Nevertheless, for those with a predisposition to be hooked by cannabis, the pull of the drug is intense.

The New York Times - Health

But researchers believe those factors trigger the symptoms of asthma rather than cause a predisposition to it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Kroll said that it was clear that Kargbo's time in solitary confinement had exacerbated a predisposition to psychosis.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a predisposition to", ensure that the noun or gerund following "to" clearly indicates the specific tendency or condition being described. For example, "a predisposition to anxiety" is clearer than "a predisposition to issues".

Common error

Avoid using "a predisposition to" with overly broad or vague terms. Instead of saying someone has "a predisposition to problems", specify the type of problem, such as "a predisposition to respiratory infections" or "a predisposition to procrastination".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a predisposition to" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a tendency, susceptibility, or increased likelihood towards a specific condition, behavior, or outcome. As supported by Ludwig, it indicates a pre-existing inclination rather than a guaranteed result.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a predisposition to" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate an increased likelihood or tendency towards something. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's widely used across various fields, particularly in science, medicine, and news media. While often associated with negative outcomes like diseases or undesirable behaviors, it can also apply to positive traits. When using the phrase, clarity is key; avoid overly general terms and ensure the context clearly defines the specific tendency or condition. Consider alternatives like "a propensity for" or "a tendency to" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a propensity for

This alternative emphasizes a natural inclination or inherent tendency, often suggesting a strong likelihood.

a tendency toward

This suggests a leaning or drift in a particular direction, highlighting a pattern of behavior or development.

a susceptibility to

This highlights vulnerability or openness to being affected by something, often implying a negative consequence.

an inclination to

This indicates a mental or emotional leaning, suggesting a preference or willingness.

a proclivity for

Similar to "propensity", this denotes a natural or habitual inclination, often used in a more formal context.

a bent toward

This suggests a natural talent or aptitude, or a strong leaning in a specific direction.

a likelihood of

This focuses on the probability of something occurring, rather than an inherent tendency.

a weakness for

This implies a specific vulnerability or fondness for something, often something considered undesirable.

an aptitude for

This indicates a natural ability or talent, highlighting a potential for success in a particular area.

a readiness to

This suggests a state of being prepared or willing to do something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a predisposition to" to indicate a higher likelihood of developing a condition or exhibiting a behavior. For example, "Genetics can cause "a predisposition to addiction"" or "Solitary confinement had exacerbated "a predisposition to psychosis"".

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

While both phrases suggest an inclination, "a predisposition to" often implies a genetic or inherent factor, while "a tendency to" can refer to learned behaviors or situational influences.

What can I say instead of "a predisposition to"?

You can use alternatives like "a propensity for", "a susceptibility to", or "an inclination to" depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to have "a predisposition to" something?

Not necessarily. While "a predisposition to" is often used in the context of diseases or negative behaviors, it can also describe a tendency towards positive attributes, such as "a predisposition to learn" or "a predisposition to creativity", even if those instances are less frequently discussed.