a strong affinity for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong affinity for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a strong natural or emotional attraction towards someone or something. For example, "She had a strong affinity for cats and always wanted to adopt one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He also feels a strong affinity for the men.

The New York Times

He does have a strong affinity for Titus and his dry sense of humor, he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Like many math geeks, Mr. Ballmer has a strong affinity for numbers.

The New York Times

During phone interviews last week, it was clear that both Fontaine and Long share a strong affinity for the water.

The New York Times - Sports

Beckham retains a strong affinity for the game in the United States, having joined the Los Angeles Galaxy in 2007.

The Guardian - Sport

They also have a strong affinity for the outdoors, reflected in the aesthetic of the landscaped grounds and formal gardens.

The New York Times

Lastly, reminiscent of Grimaud and her interest in wolf conservation, Gould had a strong affinity for animals.

The New Yorker

"It attracts and retains folks who have a strong affinity for our natural heritage".

The New York Times

Three Massachusetts railroads were chartered and under construction in 1830, at first showing a strong affinity for British practice.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Senior Time Warner executives said the chance to get back into the business was appealing to Mr. Parsons, who has a strong affinity for the music industry.

The New York Times

"I'm sure I have such a strong affinity for dance," he said, "because, like poetry, it is filled with nuances you only recognize over time".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong affinity for", ensure that the object of the affinity is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "He has a strong affinity", specify "He has "a strong affinity for" classical music".

Common error

Avoid using "a strong affinity for" when a milder preference is intended. This phrase denotes a significant attraction or connection, so using it for minor preferences can sound exaggerated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong affinity for" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun or pronoun, expressing a significant liking, attraction, or connection towards something. Ludwig AI also confirms the validity and usability of this expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a strong affinity for" is a versatile expression used to describe a significant liking, attraction, or connection to something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, from news and media to scientific writing. While the phrase is generally suitable for formal and neutral contexts, writers should be mindful of the intensity it conveys and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning. For those seeking alternatives, phrases like "a strong liking for" or "a keen interest in" can offer similar meanings with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong preference for

Directly states a favored choice or option.

a strong liking for

Replaces "affinity" with a more common and straightforward term, "liking".

a great fondness for

Highlights affection and warmth in the relationship.

a deep connection with

Emphasizes the emotional or personal bond rather than a general preference.

a soft spot for

A more colloquial way to express a particular liking or affection.

a keen interest in

Focuses on intellectual curiosity and engagement instead of emotional connection.

a powerful attraction to

Emphasizes the compelling nature of the connection.

a natural inclination towards

Highlights an inherent tendency or predisposition.

a strong resonance with

Implies a deeper, more harmonious connection or understanding.

a marked proclivity for

Indicates a strong and noticeable tendency.

FAQs

How can I use "a strong affinity for" in a sentence?

You can use "a strong affinity for" to describe a strong liking or attraction towards something. For example: "She has "a strong affinity for" the arts", or "He developed "a strong affinity for" programming after taking the introductory course".

What are some alternatives to saying "a strong affinity for"?

You can use alternatives such as "a strong liking for", "a keen interest in", or "a strong preference for", depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "affinity to" or "affinity for"?

While "affinity to" might be occasionally used, "affinity for" is the more common and widely accepted preposition to use with "affinity".

What does it mean to have "a strong affinity for" something?

To have "a strong affinity for" something means you have a natural liking, attraction, or sense of connection to it. It suggests a deeper, more inherent preference than a simple liking.