prevailing inclination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prevailing inclination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the dominant tendency or preference in a particular context or situation. Example: "The prevailing inclination among the team was to adopt a more flexible work schedule to enhance productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Since choosing just is a prevailing inclination, it is logically impossible to choose in the absence of a prevailing motive.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Republicans believe they are right.Republicans are not only more closely aligned with the prevailing inclinations of the electorate; the party can also return to Washington blessed with an exile's availing ignorance.

The Economist

The prevailing branch inclination can influence the suitability of tree species via various mechanisms: (i) The danger of detachment and falling should be reduced if seeds or plants attach to horizontal as opposed to vertical substrate.

AoB PLANTS

A trend is defined as "a prevailing tendency or inclination".

Huffington Post

By inclination and design, Timberlake is positioned apart from the prevailing trends in music, fashion, sensibility.

The New York Times

The effect is prevailing at lower and higher velocities and for all hole inclinations.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Prince William, although a man of conservative inclination, had little sympathy with the mystical visions and pious dogmas prevailing at the court during the period of reaction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Foley had initially shown an encouraging inclination to try and let the game flow but the final penalty count of 20-6 in Wasps' favour suggested he may have been unwittingly influenced by the prevailing atmosphere.

The Guardian - Sport

Perhaps the prevailing climate mattered.

The Economist

Is that the prevailing view?

The New York Times

The voters are prevailing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prevailing inclination", ensure the context clearly establishes what is 'prevailing' or dominant. This phrase works best when contrasting it with other, weaker inclinations or alternatives.

Common error

Avoid using "prevailing inclination" when the inclination is merely present or emerging. Reserve it for situations where the inclination is demonstrably dominant and widespread.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prevailing inclination" functions as a noun phrase that describes a dominant or widespread tendency. It highlights a particular preference or leaning that is more influential than others. Ludwig AI confirms this through example sentences.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prevailing inclination" is a noun phrase that describes a dominant tendency or preference. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and best suited for formal contexts, such as academic papers, news articles, and encyclopedic entries. While its frequency is rare, the phrase effectively highlights the strongest or most common leaning within a specific context. To enhance clarity in your writing, ensure that the prevailing nature of the inclination is well-established and consider alternative phrases like "dominant tendency" for similar meanings. Avoiding overstatement and keeping in mind the context ensures its appropriate and impactful usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominant tendency

Focuses on the strength and influence of the tendency rather than the underlying preference.

predominant inclination

Emphasizes the superior influence of the inclination.

overriding inclination

Highlights that the inclination is more important than any other consideration.

general preference

Indicates a widespread liking, removing the sense of drive.

common tendency

Highlights how widespread the tendency is.

typical leaning

Implies the direction of someone's inclination.

chief inclination

Highlights that the inclination is the most important.

major trend

More related to social and market behaviours.

popular desire

Indicates a longing widely found in people.

reigning sentiment

Focuses on feelings rather than inclinations.

FAQs

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

You can use "prevailing inclination" to describe a dominant tendency or preference in a particular context. For example: "The prevailing inclination among the team was to adopt a more flexible work schedule to enhance productivity."

What are some alternatives to "prevailing inclination"?

Alternatives include "dominant tendency", "predominant inclination", or "general preference", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "prevailing inclination" formal or informal?

"Prevailing inclination" is suitable for formal and neutral contexts, such as academic writing, news reports, and professional communications. It is less common in very informal conversation.

How does "prevailing inclination" differ from "common tendency"?

"Prevailing inclination" suggests a stronger, more dominant force than "common tendency". While a common tendency is simply widespread, a prevailing inclination has greater influence or power.