inclination to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inclination to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a tendency or a preference towards something. Example: "She has an inclination to pursue a career in the arts rather than in business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The police showed little inclination to try.

The Economist

Even Giacometti had an inclination to beguile.

The New Yorker

A persistent inclination to self-denigrate.

The New York Times

It forfeits creativity's inclination to praise life.

The New Yorker

Or the inclination to get it.

The Guardian - Tech

He had no inclination to find out.

The New Yorker

He has shown no inclination to compromise.

The New York Times

The Republicans showed no inclination to compromise.

The New York Times

My inclination to diplomacy will return.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Fed switched to an inclination to lower rates, from an inclination to raise them.

The New York Times

You haven't the inclination to watch The X Factor.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inclination to", ensure the context clearly indicates a tendency or disposition towards a specific action or state. Avoid using it when describing absolute certainty or obligation.

Common error

While "inclination to" is acceptable in formal writing, overuse can make your writing sound stilted. Vary your language by using synonyms like "tendency to" or "predisposition to" to improve readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inclination to" functions as a noun phrase followed by a preposition, typically acting as an adjective modifying a verb or noun. Ludwig AI shows it describes a tendency, preference, or leaning towards a certain action or state.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inclination to" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that expresses a tendency or preference. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often found in news and media sources, indicating a neutral register. While versatile, remember to consider simpler alternatives like "tendency to" or "predisposition to" depending on your desired level of formality and nuance. Be mindful of overuse in formal writing and ensure clarity in conveying the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tendency to

This alternative is a more direct and commonly used synonym, suggesting a natural or prevailing disposition.

predisposition to

This alternative implies a pre-existing susceptibility or likelihood, often genetically or constitutionally based.

proclivity to

This alternative suggests a strong, inherent leaning or bias towards something, often something considered undesirable.

leaning toward

This alternative suggests a less firm, more tentative preference or direction.

propensity for

This alternative implies a natural tendency or inherent inclination, often used in a more formal context.

disposition to

This alternative suggests a person's inherent qualities of mind and character and shows how it relates to the way that person behaves.

penchant for

This alternative suggests a strong liking or taste for something, often something specific or unusual.

aptitude for

This alternative implies a natural ability or talent for something, rather than a general preference.

bent toward

This alternative suggests a strong, almost determined, direction or focus.

predilection for

This alternative implies a strong liking deriving from one's temperament or experience.

FAQs

How can I use "inclination to" in a sentence?

Use "inclination to" to describe a tendency or preference. For example, "He has an inclination to procrastinate" or "They showed an inclination to support the proposal".

What are some alternatives to "inclination to"?

You can use alternatives like "tendency to", "predisposition to", or "proclivity to" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "inclination to" or "tendency to"?

Both "inclination to" and "tendency to" are correct, but "tendency to" is more common and generally simpler. "Inclination to" can sound more formal or nuanced.

What's the difference between "inclination to" and "intention to"?

"Inclination to" describes a leaning or predisposition, while "intention to" refers to a planned or deliberate action. For example, someone might have an inclination to exercise (a general tendency) but no intention to start today (no concrete plan).