less inclination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less inclination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reduced tendency or preference towards something. Example: "She showed less inclination to participate in the group activities this year compared to last year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Is it because of little talent and less inclination ?

The Guardian - Books

I have less inclination to feel for her.

The Guardian

For instance, I probably have more time now to devote to such matters, but less inclination.

The Guardian

At more dangerous moments, there is less inclination to imagine the worst.

The New York Times - Arts

Lower down the pecking order, you have less inclination to do so".

Independent

So he will have less need, and less inclination, publicly to rub his shoulder against Mr Bush's.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Of course the critics wondered what the game was coming to but it is hard to avoid the feeling that Suárez and others of his inclination might feel less inclined to die a thousand deaths in the penalty area if they could expect, in the words of Tony Hancock, a swift punch up the bracket.

The Guardian - Sport

He remains an iconic figure, even if there is less personal inclination to dwell on his past.

Independent

The focus is not on feeding the already ravenous self-love but on working at the less natural inclination to love one's neighbor.

The New Yorker

Those of a less Romantic inclination were equally drawn to the beach, if not for a "surf bathe", then for a picnic and a promenade, fish and chips and a flirt.

BBC

Additionally, they reported that losses which caused 10° or less radical inclination angulation would not create a rotational restriction [ 25, 26].

Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "less inclination", ensure it's followed by a clear explanation of what the subject is less inclined towards. This provides context and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "less inclination" when the context requires a stronger term like "aversion" or "refusal". "Less inclination" suggests a mild disinterest, not a strong opposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less inclination" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb, often indicating a reduced tendency or willingness towards something. It modifies the degree of desire or willingness, as demonstrated by the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

23%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "less inclination" is a valid and commonly used phrase to describe a reduced tendency or willingness. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used in news and media, science and general contexts. While it is considered neutral to formal in register, remember to provide clear context to what the subject is less inclined towards. Consider using alternatives such as "reduced willingness" or "diminished interest" to subtly shift the emphasis of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower tendency

Synonymous substitution of "inclination" with "tendency".

reduced willingness

Replaces "inclination" with "willingness", focusing on the aspect of being willing to do something.

lesser desire

Substitute synonym for "inclination" with "desire".

diminished interest

Focuses on a decreased level of interest, implying a reduced desire or enthusiasm.

weakened desire

Emphasizes the weakening of a desire or wanting to do something.

decreased propensity

Uses "propensity" to indicate a natural tendency that has lessened.

lower motivation

Indicates a reduced level of motivation, suggesting less internal drive.

waning enthusiasm

Highlights the gradual decrease in enthusiasm, suggesting a fading interest.

reduced appetite

Uses "appetite" metaphorically to mean a weaker enthusiasm or eagerness.

fewer incentives

Focuses on the reduction of motivational factors, rather than inherent desire.

FAQs

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

You can use "less inclination" to describe a reduced tendency or preference towards something. For example, "After the incident, he showed "less inclination" to participate in team activities".

What are some alternatives to saying "less inclination"?

Alternatives to "less inclination" include "reduced willingness", "diminished interest", or "lower tendency", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "less inclination" or "lesser inclination"?

"Less inclination" is generally preferred and more common in contemporary usage. "Lesser inclination" is grammatically correct but sounds somewhat archaic.

What's the difference between "less inclination" and "lack of inclination"?

"Less inclination" implies a reduced tendency, while "lack of inclination" suggests a complete absence of willingness or desire. "Less inclination" indicates a matter of degree, whereas "lack of inclination" indicates an absolute state.