a strong penchant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong penchant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deep or intense liking or inclination towards something. Example: "She has a strong penchant for classical music, often attending concerts and recitals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Both Hindus and Muslims share the Hindustani classical music and dance tradition, while they also display a strong penchant for nonclassical popular forms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Among many Russians, that passage from Revelations - also known as the Apocalypse - has touched a strong penchant for superstition in the national character, giving Chernobyl the quality of an almost supernatural disaster.

The New York Times

The retired general has already created a buzz among an electorate that analysts say often votes on personality rather than policy and has a strong penchant for military credentials.

The Guardian

Generally speaking, Cardano's philosophy is heavily influenced by characteristic trends of late scholastic Aristotelianism, with a strong penchant for Averroist interpretations.

SEP

Well, the generation that has an estimated $44 billion in purchasing power showed a strong penchant for the social media platform when it comes to shopping.

Forbes

If you own an iPhone, have $1,000 to spare and a strong penchant for Japanese history, this might be the right thing for you (but SoftBank isn't planning to sell the cases outside Nippon).

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

EXPERIMENT 1: BANANAS Method: A monkey observed to have a particularly strong penchant for bananas is given a choice — he can continue his standard ration of one banana per day or he can give up bananas in exchange for an unlimited supply of a revolutionary product called New Banana.

The New Yorker

Method: A monkey observed to have a particularly strong penchant for bananas is given a choice he can continue his standard ration of one banana per day or he can give up bananas in exchange for an unlimited supply of a revolutionary product called New Banana.

The New Yorker

Japan has a particularly strong penchant for Snoopy, et al.: Companies in that country own 40% of "Peanuts'" 900 worldwide licensing agreements.

Forbes

Until recently, the parallel was most evident in both men's strong penchant for the personality cult although not even Stalin thought of building a gold statue of himself that rotates with the sun, as Mr Niyazov has in his capital, Ashgabat.

The Economist

And sometimes he simply seems like someone trying to live up to the "Persona" outlined by his political adviser Karl Rove in a campaign brief: a "Strong Leader" with a penchant for "Bold Action" and "Big Ideas".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strong penchant", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject has a strong liking or inclination for. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a strong penchant" in contexts where a neutral preference would be more appropriate. "Penchant" implies a notably enthusiastic or intense liking, not just a mild preference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong penchant" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or following a preposition. It denotes a significant liking or inclination towards something, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong penchant" is a noun phrase used to describe a significant liking or inclination. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and serves to highlight a particular preference. While suitable for formal writing, it's more common in news and media, as well as scientific contexts. Alternatives such as "a marked inclination" or "a decided preference" can be used to convey similar meanings. Remember to use the phrase in contexts where a notable enthusiasm is appropriate, as advised by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a marked inclination

Replaces 'penchant' with 'inclination' and 'strong' with 'marked', emphasizing a noticeable tendency.

a decided preference

Substitutes 'penchant' with 'preference' and 'strong' with 'decided', highlighting a firm liking.

a keen liking

Replaces 'penchant' with 'liking' and 'strong' with 'keen', suggesting enthusiasm.

a notable fondness

Changes 'penchant' to 'fondness' and 'strong' to 'notable', indicating affection.

a significant leaning

Replaces 'penchant' with 'leaning' and 'strong' with 'significant', implying a direction of interest.

a pronounced tendency

Substitutes 'penchant' with 'tendency' and 'strong' with 'pronounced', focusing on habitual behavior.

a powerful attraction

Changes 'penchant' to 'attraction' and 'strong' to 'powerful', highlighting allure.

a great enthusiasm

Replaces 'penchant' with 'enthusiasm' and 'strong' with 'great', suggesting high excitement.

a particular affinity

Substitutes 'penchant' with 'affinity' and 'strong' with 'particular', indicating a natural connection.

a special taste

Changes 'penchant' to 'taste' and 'strong' to 'special', referring to personal enjoyment.

FAQs

What does "a strong penchant" mean?

It means a strong liking, inclination, or tendency towards something. It suggests a notable enthusiasm or preference.

How can I use "a strong penchant" in a sentence?

For example, "She has "a strong penchant" for classical music" or "He displayed "a strong penchant" for collecting rare books."

What are some alternatives to "a strong penchant"?

Alternatives include "a marked inclination", "a decided preference", or "a keen liking", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a strong penchant" in formal writing?

Yes, "a strong penchant" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you want to emphasize a significant liking or tendency. However, consider the specific context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone.