special predilection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "special predilection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong preference or liking for something specific. Example: "She has a special predilection for classical music, often attending concerts and recitals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

At 19, Rosie now has a special predilection for movie drag queens.

The Guardian - Film

The main character of this self-proclaimed Rabelaisian romp, the Eric Gill-like figure of Sebastian Skeleton, aims to live by jokes alone; he reigns omnivorously over his family, his special predilection being for carnal intimacy with a barnyard resident by the name of Rebecca.

The Guardian - Books

For aficionados of brasher stuff, the Prince Charles, just off Leicester Square, is a last remnant of the eccentric programming that was once a trademark of London's repertory circuit: an atmospheric red-walled cavern with a wide remit, but a special predilection for cult cinema at the "go figure" end of the so-bad-it's-good spectrum.

The Guardian - Film

The disease shows a special predilection for the basal cisterna of the brain; cranial nerve involvement is frequent, influencing the clinical manifestation of disease.

Insights into Imaging

CNS IVL may have a special predilection for the endothelium of cerebral vasculature and therefore more localized in the brain while IVL's in other organs may herald additional disease in other sites relating to a more diffuse pattern of systemic involvement.

Cancer Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Other colors and motifs were introduced, often in ways that broke with convention and expressed the special predilections of the wearer.

The Washington Post

Even Angell, who has special insight into the predilections of Alan Greenspan and his other former colleagues, may do no better at predicting Fed moves and how they affect long-term bond yields than you would on your own.

Forbes

Thanks to the armor of special interests and to the predilection of presidents to do things, Reagan left behind a much bigger federal enterprise than he inherited, including a whole new cabinet department (Veterans Affairs) and 60,000 more employees.

The New York Times - Magazine

Here's one: we are the world champions of not remembering what we've done the night before, which you can either blame on our fondness for super-strength beers like Special Brew, or the British predilection for getting pissed in order to do or say things we're too scared to do sober.

Vice

The names of the drink specials give further indication of the musical predilection: Dio, Accept, Saxon, Grave Digger.

Vice

NPC differs from other head and neck cancers by its distinctly skewed geographic and ethnic distribution, its association with Epstein Barr virus (EBV), its aggressive natural behaviour with an especially high predilection propensity for distant metastases, and special therapeutic considerations [ 1].

BMC Cancer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "special predilection". While grammatically correct, it may sound overly formal in casual conversations or informal writing. Choose a simpler alternative like "strong preference" or "particular fondness" for broader accessibility.

Common error

Avoid using "special predilection" in informal or conversational settings. It can come across as pretentious or overly verbose when simpler alternatives would suffice. For instance, instead of saying "I have a special predilection for pizza", opt for "I really like pizza".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "special predilection" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb or preposition, indicating a particular liking or preference. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes a strong preference.

Expression frequency: Rare

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, "special predilection" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express a strong and particular liking or preference. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is perfectly usable in English. While its usage is relatively rare, it appears more frequently in News & Media and Science contexts. When writing, reserve "special predilection" for formal situations or scientific articles where a specific and strong preference is described. In everyday conversations, consider using simpler alternatives like "strong preference" or "particular fondness" to maintain clarity and avoid sounding pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

particular fondness

Emphasizes affection and enjoyment more than a general preference.

strong inclination

Highlights a natural tendency or leaning towards something.

marked preference

Stresses the distinctiveness and clarity of the preference.

distinct liking

Focuses on the positive feeling of enjoyment and approval.

definite partiality

Suggests a bias or favoritism towards something.

keen attraction

Implies a strong pull or allure towards something.

pronounced affinity

Highlights a natural connection or similarity.

noticeable leaning

Emphasizes a tendency that is easily observed.

unique proclivity

Suggests an unusual or distinctive inclination.

personal bent

Focuses on an individual's unique tendency or aptitude.

FAQs

How can I use "special predilection" in a sentence?

You can use "special predilection" to describe a strong liking or preference for something. For example: "She has a "special predilection" for vintage movies", or "The disease shows a "special predilection" for the basal cisterna of the brain".

What phrases are similar to "special predilection"?

Alternatives to "special predilection" include "particular fondness", "strong inclination", or "marked preference". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "special predilection" formal or informal?

"Special predilection" is considered a more formal phrase. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "strong preference" or "particular liking" may be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "special predilection" and "preference"?

"Special predilection" implies a stronger and more specific liking than a general "preference". It suggests a particular fondness or inclination towards something unique or specific.