have a propensity for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'have a propensity for' is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to express a tendency to behave or think in a particular way. For example, "Many children have a propensity for getting into mischief" or "Animals have a propensity for seeking comfort and safety".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ryder Ripps, 14, may have a propensity for design.

The New York Times

I just don't have a propensity for catching balls.

The Guardian - Film

Kyrgios sometimes elicits comparisons to Monfils, if only because they both have a propensity for tweeners.

The New Yorker

He is said to have a propensity for making off-color remarks and riding people extremely hard.

The New York Times

I fail at this, and I have a propensity for misconduct, but I learn in the end.

Independent

Scientists, particularly those from developed nations, have a propensity for identifying problems and methodologies to address them.

The New York Times

They have a propensity for preventive, personalised, joined-up service delivery – exactly the things the government says it is looking for.

The Guardian

Right now, it could tell an employer that a job applicant might have a propensity for heart trouble in the future, or for Parkinson's disease.

The New York Times - Magazine

That may indeed be how a lot of football works -- fear working downward -- but Edwards does not seem to have a propensity for bullying.

The New York Times - Sports

They have a propensity for late-inning rallies; even on Sunday, before losing, they tied it in the ninth against the best reliever in history.

The New Yorker

In addition, the syllabus remains focused on nurturing the skills of children who have a propensity for competitive sport – the minority rather than the majority.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have a propensity for" when you want to describe a natural inclination or tendency, especially in formal contexts. For example, 'The metal "has a propensity for" corrosion in humid environments.'

Common error

While grammatically sound, "have a propensity for" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "tend to" or "are likely to" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a propensity for" functions as a verb phrase indicating a tendency or inclination towards something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It's generally followed by a noun or gerund, specifying the object or activity towards which the propensity exists.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "have a propensity for" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a natural inclination or tendency. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. While appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, it might sound overly formal in casual conversation. Its frequency is categorized as "very common", particularly in News & Media and Science, indicating its widespread use in formal writing and reporting. Alternatives like "tend to" or "be inclined to" can be used for simpler expressions. Always use "have a propensity for" when you want to describe a natural inclination or tendency, especially in formal contexts. The phrase can be used to express a tendency to behave or think in a particular way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a tendency for

This alternative is very similar, replacing 'propensity' with 'tendency', suggesting a leaning or inclination.

have an inclination toward

This phrase replaces "propensity" with "inclination", emphasizing a mental or emotional leaning.

have a proclivity for

This is a direct synonym replacement, maintaining a formal tone and meaning a natural tendency.

be predisposed to

This alternative focuses on a pre-existing susceptibility or likelihood.

be inclined to

A more casual alternative, suggesting a disposition or willingness to do something.

lean towards

This phrase indicates a favoring of or tendency in a particular direction.

be apt to

This alternative means likely or having a natural tendency to do something.

have a bent for

This phrase implies a natural talent or aptitude for something.

be susceptible to

This alternative suggests a vulnerability or likelihood to be affected by something.

have a weakness for

This phrase indicates a fondness or inability to resist something, often implying a negative connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "have a propensity for" in a sentence?

The phrase "have a propensity for" is used to describe a natural inclination or tendency. For example, "Children "have a propensity for" asking questions" or "Certain materials "have a propensity for" absorbing moisture."

What are some alternatives to "have a propensity for"?

You can use alternatives like "have a tendency for", "have an inclination toward", or "be inclined to" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "have a propensity for" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "have a propensity for" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "tend to" or "are likely to" for a more natural tone.

What's the difference between "have a propensity for" and "have a proclivity for"?

The phrases "have a propensity for" and "have a proclivity for" are very similar in meaning, both indicating a natural tendency. The choice between them often comes down to stylistic preference, as 'proclivity' might be perceived as slightly more formal or less common.