inclining toward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inclining toward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a tendency or preference for something, often in a more abstract or figurative sense. Example: "Her opinions are inclining toward a more progressive stance on social issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He was inclining toward the Korzhakov option.

The New Yorker

That belief is shaken when he finds himself inclining toward extreme violence to resolve his cases.

The New York Times - Books

Pill sings karaoke at least once a month, inclining toward Shania Twain, Alanis Morissette, "and other angry Canadians".

The New Yorker

I, however, not yet a nurse, was inclining toward the amnio because my twin pregnancy had been such a shock; any additional information seemed worthwhile.

The New York Times

During the ride from the Cipriani to the festival site, on the Lido, the mood aboard Scorsese's water taxi was subdued, inclining toward lugubrious.

The New Yorker

He brought an aggressive form of "humanism" to nineteenth-century France, inclining toward a form of worship that replaced the God above with Good Men below.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

President Obama seems inclined toward this view.

The New Yorker

He initially inclined toward abstract art.

The New York Times - Arts

She is inclined toward practicality.

The New Yorker

Non-voters were more inclined toward isolationism.

The New Yorker

Tokyo proper is strongly inclined toward light industry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "inclining toward" to express a subtle preference or tendency, rather than a firm decision. It's most effective when describing evolving opinions or gradual shifts in behavior.

Common error

While acceptable, "inclining toward" can sometimes sound unnecessarily verbose in formal writing. Consider using more direct alternatives like "preferring" or "favoring" for a more concise tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inclining toward" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle phrase acting as a modifier. It indicates a gradual or ongoing tendency. Ludwig provides several examples of its use in sentences to express inclination.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "inclining toward" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for indicating a tendency or preference, as confirmed by Ludwig. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it suggests a gradual shift or evolving viewpoint. While generally neutral in register, consider more concise alternatives like "preferring" in highly formal settings. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase the phrase's versatility in describing various inclinations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leaning towards

Indicates a slight preference or tendency in a particular direction.

tending towards

Suggests a gradual movement or development in a specific direction.

gravitating toward

Implies a natural attraction or pull towards something.

predisposed to

Highlights a prior inclination or susceptibility.

becoming more inclined to

Emphasizes the process of developing a preference.

favoring

Suggests a deliberate choice or support for something.

developing a preference for

Focuses on the gradual formation of a liking for something.

moving in the direction of

Indicates a directional shift of thought or action.

approaching

Suggests getting closer to a particular viewpoint or decision.

veering towards

Implies a slight deviation or change of course in a particular direction.

FAQs

How can I use "inclining toward" in a sentence?

You can use "inclining toward" to express a tendency or preference. For example: "His views are "inclining toward" a more conservative approach."

What can I say instead of "inclining toward"?

You can use alternatives like "leaning towards", "tending towards", or "gravitating toward" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "inclining toward" or "inclined to"?

Both "inclining toward" and "inclined to" are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Inclining toward" suggests a gradual shift, while "inclined to" indicates a general disposition or willingness.

What's the difference between "inclining toward" and "leaning toward"?

"Inclining toward" and "leaning towards" are very similar in meaning, both suggesting a tendency or preference. The choice between them often comes down to personal style and the specific context.