developed an affection for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "developed an affection for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a growing fondness or liking for someone or something over time. Example: "Over the years, she developed an affection for classical music, often attending concerts and exploring new composers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

But he developed an affection for his neighbors, many of whom were elderly Jews.

The New York Times

One of them was purple and she had developed an affection for it, never using it on greasy pots or to wipe up nasty spills.

The New Yorker

She hadn't developed an affection for television (which she says she doesn't watch); her appearances were planned to promote a new album, "American Life," released that week.

The New York Times

And having developed an affection for New York in recent years, he upped sticks and plonked himself down in New York.

Independent

The prime minister also developed an affection for Mr Adams and Mr McGuinness, despite all the damage the IRA did over the years.

The Economist

Like many artists who have lived in or visited Maine, Walker has developed an affection for the irregularity of this coastline, its appearance transformed hourly by the fickle weather and dramatic tides.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The camera's viewpoint shifts as she develops an affection for him.

The New York Times - Arts

Dounia also develops an affection for a handsome (white) security guard at the local supermarket, who is training to be a dancer.

The Guardian - Film

It takes just a few days in Dhaka to acclimate, and to develop an affection for the city's impregnable streets.

The New York Times - Travel

So some big retailers are letting it be known that while they love newspapers, they could develop an affection for direct mail or smaller daily or weekly papers.

The New York Times

With wedding costs spiraling up everywhere and the tremors of a shaky economy threatening to rattle even the best-laid plans, more couples may have to become more resourceful — and develop an affection for sunflowers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "developed an affection for", consider the object of the affection. It often applies to people, places, or activities, but can also extend to objects or ideas.

Common error

The phrase "developed an affection for" implies a gradual process. Don't use it to describe an instant liking or love at first sight. Instead, opt for phrases like "was immediately drawn to" or "instantly liked".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "developed an affection for" functions as a verb phrase indicating the gradual growth of fondness or liking towards someone or something. Ludwig highlights its correct and usable nature in written English. It typically follows a subject and precedes the object of affection.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "developed an affection for" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a gradual increase in fondness or liking. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides numerous examples across various contexts. While not overly common, it effectively conveys the evolution of positive feelings. It's important to remember that this phrase suggests a process over time, distinguishing it from expressions of immediate attraction. Ludwig's examples highlight its prevalence in news and media, Wikipedia, and encyclopedic contexts, further solidifying its place as a reliable and expressive phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

became fond of

Substitutes "affection" with "fondness", offering a slightly more common alternative.

grew to like

Replaces "developed an affection for" with a simpler verb construction, focusing on the gradual increase in liking.

took a liking to

Uses a more idiomatic expression to convey the same meaning of developing a preference.

formed an attachment to

Focuses on the emotional connection and bond that develops.

came to appreciate

Emphasizes the element of understanding and valuing something, in addition to simply liking it.

felt an affinity for

Indicates a natural liking or connection to someone or something.

established a soft spot for

Emphasizes a tender or sentimental affection.

cultivated a fondness for

Suggests a more active and deliberate development of affection.

nurtured a love for

Implies careful and deliberate development of a strong feeling of love.

acquired a taste for

Often used for things like food or hobbies, implying the development of a specific preference.

FAQs

How to use "developed an affection for" in a sentence?

Use "developed an affection for" to describe a gradual increase in fondness or liking for someone or something over time. For example, "Over the years, she "developed an affection for" classical music." You can replace this phrase with similar alternatives like "grew to like", or "became fond of".

What can I say instead of "developed an affection for"?

You can use alternatives like "grew to like", "became fond of", or "took a liking to" depending on the context. These phrases express a similar sentiment of growing fondness but use different wording.

Which is correct, "developed an affection for" or "developed a liking for"?

Both "developed an affection for" and "developed a liking for" are correct. "Developed an affection for" suggests a deeper, more emotional connection, while "developed a liking for" is more general and less intense.

What's the difference between "developed an affection for" and "formed an attachment to"?

"Developed an affection for" implies a fondness and liking, while "formed an attachment to" suggests a stronger emotional bond and dependence. The latter indicates a deeper connection than simply liking something.