frequent tendency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "frequent tendency" is not correct and is generally considered redundant in written English.
You can use it when discussing a behavior or pattern that occurs often, but it is better to choose a more concise expression. Example: "There is a frequent tendency for people to procrastinate when faced with large projects."

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

In addition to the natural and frequent tendency for your mind to stray, it also has automatic constraints too, to ensure that it does not stray too far.

Harvard University

But this Administration's frequent tendency to dismiss the better instincts of the world community — as in its contemptuous hostility to the Kyoto environmental accords and the nascent international system of justice for war crimes — is foolish.

The New Yorker

But this Administration's frequent tendency to dismiss the better instincts of the world community as in its contemptuous hostility to the Kyoto environmental accords and the nascent international system of justice for war crimes is foolish.

The New Yorker

But Kohlberg understood that no amount of philosophising would save the world from that prospect, so he set out to find empirical evidence to support his belief that humankind, through a gradual process of cultural advance, might outgrow its all too frequent tendency to indulge in heinous acts against members of its own species.

The Guardian - Opinion

His frequent tendency to go from zero to Nazi over ordinary political disagreements is typical of the emotional appeal he has to conservative primary voters, but it also shows why he's outside the bounds major political parties have applied to their past presidential nominees.

The New Yorker

On the other hand, it is also consistent with his frequent tendency to materialism.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"Can I get an amen?" Considering the long, sordid history of trans sensationalism in the media, and the frequent editorial tendency to focus so much on subjects' gender identity that their individuality is lost, the subtlety of Glamour Spain's cover is both notable and refreshing.

Vice

Jenny's character was unpopular with both fans and critics throughout the entire series because of her frequent narcissistic tendencies, her prima donna ways, her egotistical attitude, irresponsibility, frequent self-pity and selfish persona.

Wikipedia

Equally bad and unfortunately just as frequent is the tendency to overpowder and the tendency to end one's pallor at the jawbone.

The New York Times

While amendments are possible – and frequent – there was a tendency for speakers to argue in favour or against, rather than to explore.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ms. Orthwein's frequent vocals have a tendency to disrupt the mood of the work, and the elements, from the dancing to the music, rarely exhibit a seamless flow.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "frequent tendency" isn't incorrect, consider using stronger, more concise alternatives like "common tendency" or "usual practice" for clearer writing. This can help avoid redundancy and make your message more impactful.

Common error

Avoid pairing "frequent" with words that already imply repetition or habit, such as "tendency". Instead, focus on specifying the nature of the tendency rather than just its frequency. Consider specifying the context or cause of the tendency instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "frequent tendency" functions as a noun phrase, where "frequent" modifies the noun "tendency". It describes a recurring or habitual inclination. Ludwig AI notes that the phrase can be redundant.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

40%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "frequent tendency" describes a recurring inclination or behavior, but it's often considered redundant. Ludwig AI suggests that while acceptable, it's generally better to use more concise alternatives such as "common tendency" or "regular pattern". The phrase appears in various contexts, including science, news media, and academia, with a neutral register. While grammatically sound, prioritizing brevity and clarity in writing will enhance communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common inclination

Replaces "tendency" with "inclination" suggesting a natural disposition.

regular pattern

Focuses on the repeated nature of the behavior or event.

recurring habit

Highlights the repetitive and often unconscious nature of the tendency.

repeated behavior

Emphasizes the action being done multiple times.

persistent disposition

Stresses the lasting nature of the inclination.

usual practice

Highlights what is normally done or expected.

typical manner

Focuses on the characteristic way something is done.

prevailing trend

Indicates a widespread pattern or direction.

established norm

Emphasizes that the tendency is considered standard or accepted.

constant characteristic

Highlights that the tendency is ongoing and a defining feature.

FAQs

How can I use "frequent tendency" in a sentence?

You can use "frequent tendency" to describe a recurring inclination or behavior, such as "There is a frequent tendency for people to procrastinate". However, consider using more concise alternatives.

What can I say instead of "frequent tendency"?

You can use alternatives like "common inclination", "regular pattern", or "recurring habit" depending on the context.

Is "frequent tendency" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, "frequent tendency" can be considered redundant. It's generally acceptable but often better to opt for more concise phrasing.

What's the difference between "frequent tendency" and "common tendency"?

The phrase "common tendency" is a more concise way of expressing the same idea, where something occurs often. "Frequent tendency" is somewhat redundant because "tendency" already implies a pattern or repetition.