inclination

USAGE SUMMARY

"inclination" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use this word to talk about a tendency or a preference for something. For example, "His inclination for foreign adventure was strong, so he decided to take a gap year in South America."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Humanity has the ability to tackle climate change – it just lacks the inclination.

The Guardian

On this evidence we have a culture that either squeals with the joy of escapism or fuzzily yearns for tomorrow: it has lost the inclination to shout about the here and how.

The Guardian - Opinion

Few have the courage, inclination or expertise to blood their senior students in what democracy is all about.

The Guardian

We study for three years focused on one thing, chafing against our natural inclination toward myriad interests, with the vague expectation of a better job.

The Guardian

Week 8: Language - Monday 2 November Prose style - the way you use language in your fiction - is a matter of inclination and taste.

The Guardian

I'm creative, but don't have the inclination or patience to sew, knit or sculpt.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Fresh from organising the third Himalayan Outdoor Festival in the hills outside Kathmandu – an annual three-day event featuring trail-running and cross-country mountain bike races – Base Camp owner Paresh Shrestha explains that more and more people here are cycling, not necessarily because of an inclination to 'green up', but rather because vehicle ownership has become so expensive in Nepal.

The Guardian

"We wanted to put human faces on some iniquities in the US and abroad, so that people might feel a little more empathy and inclination to help," said Kristof.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Boris may be a Conservative in name and inclination, but isn't above embracing a traditionally more liberal idea like greater immigration – just as Michael Bloomberg in New York abandoned first the Democratic and then the Republican party to become a self-styled independent.

The Guardian

There is a growing inclination to regard the EU as a "piggybank".

The Guardian

Add to our obsession with security the anomie of a society that has less and less time or inclination for neighbourliness and you have a toxic mix that the commissioners will need to address quickly.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inclination", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a tendency, preference, or a physical angle. This will enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid confusing "inclination" (a tendency or preference) with "incline" (a slope or slant). While related, they have distinct meanings. Ensure you use the correct word based on the context.

Linguistic Context

The noun "inclination" primarily functions as a descriptor of a tendency, preference, or predisposition. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it describing both mental tendencies and physical angles.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "inclination" is a versatile noun used to describe a tendency, preference, or even a physical angle. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It appears most frequently in news and media contexts, as shown by Ludwig's examples, and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Related terms include "tendency", "predisposition", and "leaning". When using "inclination", be sure to differentiate it from "incline" to avoid confusion. Remember, "inclination" is about the leaning, while "incline" is about the slope.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tendency

Replaces "inclination" with a focus on a general trend or leaning.

predisposition

Suggests a pre-existing readiness or likelihood to act in a certain way, similar to "inclination".

leaning

Implies a slight preference or bias, mirroring one aspect of "inclination".

bent

Indicates a strong natural talent or "inclination" towards a particular activity.

proclivity

Highlights a natural or habitual inclination or tendency.

disposition

Focuses on a person's inherent qualities of mind and character that create an inclination.

penchant

Emphasizes a strong liking or fondness, which can drive an "inclination".

predilection

Indicates a preference or special liking for something, similar to having an "inclination".

tendency to

Describes the general type of trend but in a explicit way.

natural aptitude

Highlights a natural talent or ability, which can influence one's inclinations.

FAQs

How can I use "inclination" in a sentence?

You can use "inclination" to describe a tendency, preference, or angle. For example, "He had a strong inclination towards art" or "The inclination of the Leaning Tower of Pisa is quite noticeable."

What are some synonyms for "inclination"?

Some synonyms for "inclination" include "tendency", "predisposition", "leaning", and "proclivity". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "I have an inclination to do something"?

Yes, it is correct. The phrase "have an inclination to do something" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a tendency or desire to do something.

What's the difference between "inclination" and "preference"?

"Inclination" suggests a natural tendency or predisposition, while "preference" implies a conscious choice or liking. You might have an inclination towards certain foods due to your upbringing, but a preference for a specific dish based on taste.