lesser inclination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lesser inclination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reduced tendency or preference towards something compared to another option. Example: "Her lesser inclination towards risk-taking made her more cautious in her investment choices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Furthermore, it was intended to determine whether the voluntary or suffered interruption of a loving relationship was correlated to a greater or lesser inclination to aggression and emotional dependency.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

When GPs interpret their patients' complaints as being of somatic origin, there is a lesser inclination to put the patient on the sick list whether or not the working capacity of the patient is assessed as impaired.

BMC Family Practice

Lesser's List.

Forbes

This inclination should be resisted.

Huffington Post

Also noteworthy are the prints of his lesser-known contemporary Keisai Eisen, whose inclination to give tumbling water the solidity of nearby rocks has a bracing visionary force.

The New York Times - Arts

Romney and, to a lesser extent Huckabee, by contrast, have shown little inclination to even discuss their position on these issues.

TechCrunch

It has remained her inclination, ever since, to stick up for lesser-loved and quirkier instruments ("The poor viola!").

The Guardian - Music

Lesser people under the same physical pressures might not have had the inclination to pick up a pen, let alone think and record thoughts which — created in the midst of striving for healthy self-overcoming — would have the power to influence an entire century.

SEP

But for those with the time and inclination to take the road less travelled, here are three lesser-known gems just a short distance away.

BBC

That was the inclination I noticed John Hume was nodding towards during the last days of the election campaign; lesser mortals in his party were mobilising to count the Fenian vote in West Tyrone.

The Guardian

Or inclination.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lesser inclination", ensure it's followed by a 'to' infinitive or a 'towards' prepositional phrase to clearly indicate what the inclination is directed towards. For example, "a lesser inclination to participate" or "a lesser inclination towards risk".

Common error

Avoid using "lesser inclination" when you mean complete aversion. "Lesser" indicates a reduced tendency, not an absence of it. If there's no inclination at all, use phrases like "no inclination" or "complete aversion".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lesser inclination" functions as a noun phrase, where 'lesser' modifies 'inclination'. It describes a reduced or diminished tendency towards something. As Ludwig AI indicates, this is a correct and usable phrase, found in various written contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lesser inclination" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase signifying a reduced tendency or preference. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, particularly in news and scientific domains. When using this phrase, ensure it's followed by a clear indication of what the inclination pertains to. Consider alternatives like "reduced tendency" or "diminished preference" depending on the specific nuance required. Be mindful not to use "lesser inclination" when describing a complete absence of inclination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduced tendency

Emphasizes the decreased likelihood of something occurring.

diminished preference

Highlights a weakened liking or favor for something.

lower propensity

Suggests a decreased natural inclination or tendency.

weakened disposition

Indicates a reduced state of mind or inclination.

smaller likelihood

Focuses on the reduced probability of something happening.

decreased willingness

Highlights a reduced readiness or eagerness to do something.

lessened desire

Emphasizes a reduced feeling of wanting or wishing for something.

mitigated tendency

Implies that a tendency has been made less severe or intense.

slight disinclination

Uses a more formal tone to express a mild lack of enthusiasm.

limited appetite

Suggests a reduced enthusiasm or desire, often in a metaphorical sense.

FAQs

What does "lesser inclination" mean?

The phrase "lesser inclination" refers to a reduced or diminished tendency, preference, or willingness towards something. It implies a weaker desire or likelihood compared to another option or situation.

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

You might use "lesser inclination" to describe someone's reduced enthusiasm for a task: "Due to fatigue, she showed a "reduced tendency" to participate in the afternoon activities."

What are some alternatives to "lesser inclination"?

Alternatives include "reduced tendency", "diminished preference", "lower propensity", or "decreased willingness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "lesser inclination" or "reduced tendency"?

"Lesser inclination" carries a slightly more formal tone than "reduced tendency". The best choice depends on the context and your audience. In academic or professional writing, "lesser inclination" might be appropriate, while "reduced tendency" could be suitable for more casual communication.