predisposition to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "predisposition to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing or describing someone's natural or acquired tendencies towards something. For example, "Dr. Johnson has a predisposition to helping others, and is often the first to volunteer for community service."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Is it a predisposition to be feckless and lazy?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

SNP's affect predisposition to disease and varied responses to drugs.

The New York Times

Do adolescents have a kind of predisposition to drug addiction?

The New York Times - Health

"It may produce a physiological predisposition to better sleeping".

The New York Times - Magazine

These children have a strong inherited predisposition to the disease.

Independent

Is there a genetic predisposition to break ranks?

The New York Times - Books

The predisposition to develop bipolar disorder is partly genetically inherited.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The predisposition to migraine is approximately 50 percent genetic.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some states allow prosecutions as long as there was a "predisposition" to the conduct.

The New York Times

"I ignored the fact that I had a genetic predisposition to breast cancer".

The Guardian

The task for defense lawyers is made more complicated by human predisposition to sympathize with children.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "predisposition to", ensure you clearly define what the subject is predisposed to, and whether this predisposition is genetic, environmental, or behavioral.

Common error

Avoid implying that a "predisposition to" something guarantees a specific outcome. It only suggests an increased likelihood, not a certainty. Lifestyle, environment, and personal choices can still play a significant role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "predisposition to" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a tendency or susceptibility towards something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is correct. It is commonly used to describe inclinations toward diseases, behaviors, or conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "predisposition to" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to denote a tendency or increased likelihood towards something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct for use in the English language.

Analysis of usage patterns indicates that the phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, reflecting its utility in discussing genetic predispositions, health risks, and behavioral tendencies. It carries a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for a wide range of writing styles. While the phrase suggests an elevated likelihood, it is crucial to remember that it does not imply certainty; other factors play critical roles in determining actual outcomes. Related phrases, like ""tendency to"" and ""susceptibility to"", offer alternative ways to express similar concepts with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tendency to

Focuses on an inclination to behave in a certain way.

susceptibility to

Highlights vulnerability or openness to being affected by something.

propensity to

Indicates a natural inclination or tendency.

inclination to

Emphasizes a leaning or preference toward something.

vulnerability to

Stresses the state of being open to harm or negative influence.

proneness to

Highlights a liability or tendency to experience something, often negative.

aptitude for

Focuses on a natural talent or ability to do something well.

liability to

Indicates a state of being legally obliged or responsible, or a tendency to incur something undesirable.

openness to

Emphasizes willingness to consider or experience new things.

receptiveness to

Highlights the capacity or willingness to receive or accept something.

FAQs

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

Use "predisposition to" to indicate a tendency or inclination towards something, often due to genetic or environmental factors. For example, "Individuals with a family history of heart disease may have a genetic "predisposition to" developing the condition."

What are some alternatives to "predisposition to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "tendency to", "susceptibility to", or "propensity to". Each emphasizes slightly different aspects of inclination or vulnerability.

Is it accurate to describe a "predisposition to" something as a certainty?

No, a "predisposition to" something implies an increased likelihood, not a guaranteed outcome. Other factors can influence whether the predisposition manifests. It's more of a risk factor than a destiny.

Can environmental factors influence a "predisposition to" a disease?

Yes, environmental factors can significantly influence whether a genetic "predisposition to" a disease actually results in the disease. Lifestyle choices, exposure to toxins, and access to healthcare all play a role.