predisposition for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "predisposition for" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means a natural tendency or inclination towards something. Example: His family has a genetic predisposition for heart disease, so he must be careful about his diet and exercise habits.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"You probably have an innate predisposition for that injury".

The New York Times - Health

I must admit to having a predisposition for this book.

The New York Times - Books

— R.Stuelpner, NYC A. There is a genetic predisposition for addiction.

The New York Times

A majority of Mozart's sonatas share this predisposition for the sound of wind instruments.

The Guardian - Books

We inherit a predisposition for such phobia, which a parent can easily trigger.

The New York Times - Science

"It says you carry a genetic predisposition for the disease and should talk with a health care professional".

The New York Times

It links happiness with an alleged British predisposition for depression as arising from a particular form of the serotonin gene.

The Guardian - Opinion

It is already possible to check embryos for a gene that will show a predisposition for Alzheimer's.

The New York Times

"I have had a predisposition for love of jihad and martyrdom since I was little," he said.

The New Yorker

Could the lack of fat in her diet interacted with a predisposition for Alzheimer's?

The New York Times

Going every night allows you to try things you may not have a predisposition for".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing health or genetics, use "predisposition for" to accurately convey an increased risk or likelihood, while avoiding deterministic language. For instance, say someone has a "predisposition for" a condition rather than saying they will definitely develop it.

Common error

Avoid using "predisposition for" as a synonym for certainty. A "predisposition for" something does not guarantee it will happen, but only suggests a higher probability. Always consider environmental and lifestyle factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "predisposition for" functions primarily as a noun phrase + preposition, indicating a tendency or inclination toward something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage and common occurrence in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "predisposition for" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies a natural tendency or increased likelihood towards something. As evidenced by Ludwig AI's analysis and the numerous examples provided, it frequently appears in scientific, news, and media contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. It is important to avoid using "predisposition for" as a guarantee of an outcome, instead recognizing it as a contributing factor that increases probability. Related phrases like "inclination towards" or "susceptibility to" can be useful alternatives depending on the specific context. Remember to use "predisposition for" accurately to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inclination towards

Emphasizes a leaning or preference, slightly less formal than "predisposition for".

tendency toward

Highlights a habitual pattern or likelihood, similar in formality to "predisposition for".

susceptibility to

Focuses on vulnerability or proneness, often used in medical or scientific contexts, similar formality to "predisposition for".

propensity for

A more formal synonym indicating a natural inclination or tendency.

vulnerability to

Highlights the possibility of being harmed or affected, suggesting a weaker state.

natural inclination for

Emphasizes the innate or inherent nature of the tendency.

aptitude for

Implies a natural talent or ability, shifting the focus slightly from tendency to capability.

penchant for

Suggests a strong liking or fondness, less formal than "predisposition for".

predilection for

Indicates a preference or special liking, similar in formality to "predisposition for".

weakness for

Implies a difficulty in resisting something, often used in the context of temptations or bad habits.

FAQs

How to use "predisposition for" in a sentence?

You can use "predisposition for" to indicate an increased likelihood of developing a condition or exhibiting a behavior. For example, "Individuals with a family history of anxiety may have a genetic "predisposition for" developing the disorder themselves".

What can I say instead of "predisposition for"?

You can use alternatives like "inclination towards", "tendency toward", or "susceptibility to" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "predisposition for" or "predisposition to"?

While both are sometimes used, ""predisposition for"" is generally preferred and more common, especially when discussing tendencies or inclinations. "Predisposition to" can also be used, but often implies a susceptibility to something negative.

What's the difference between ""predisposition for"" and "vulnerability to"?

"Predisposition for" suggests an inherent tendency or increased likelihood, while "vulnerability to" emphasizes a weakness or susceptibility to harm. Predisposition can be neutral, while vulnerability generally carries a negative connotation.