the propensity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "propensity" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a noun that means an inclination or natural tendency towards something. For example, "John has a propensity for reading books late at night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The propensity to link seemingly unrelated things.

The New Yorker

Exercise also improves sleep and decreases the propensity to fall.

The New York Times - Health

The propensity may be ancient, but the means are not.

The New York Times - Health

Aggressiveness, therefore, is the propensity to commit such an assault.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Five, the propensity for fans to organically lure more fans.

The New York Times

The sum of the propensity to consume and the propensity to save always equals one (see propensity to consume).

Encyclopedia Britannica

The propensity score method has several drawbacks.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

This can explain the propensity of folding intermediates to aggregate.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Proteins and Proteomics

The propensity score (PS) is a balancing score.

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology

Third, only 110 patients were included in the propensity analysis.

Annals of Intensive Care

One of these is the propensity to envy.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the propensity", ensure it's followed by 'to' + verb (e.g., "the propensity to err") or 'for' + noun (e.g., "the propensity for violence") for clarity and grammatical correctness.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions after "the propensity". While "the propensity to" and "the propensity for" are standard, other prepositions can lead to awkward or incorrect phrasing. Always double-check the prepositional phrase for grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the propensity" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a tendency or inclination. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase indicates a natural predisposition towards something. The examples from Ludwig reinforce this function, showcasing its role in expressing inherent qualities or likelihoods.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the propensity" is a frequently used noun phrase denoting a tendency or inclination. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. It commonly appears in Science and News & Media contexts, showcasing its formal and neutral tone. When using "the propensity", it's important to follow it with the correct preposition ("to" or "for") and to be mindful of its slightly more formal register. Related phrases include "the tendency", "the inclination", and "the likelihood", each offering subtle differences in meaning. Therefore, considering this comprehensive analysis helps to use "the propensity" effectively and accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the tendency

A direct synonym replacement, emphasizing a habitual pattern of behavior or thought. This is the closest alternative in meaning.

the inclination

Replaces "propensity" with a synonym that also suggests a natural leaning or tendency.

the proclivity

A more formal synonym for "propensity", indicating a strong inclination or liking.

the disposition

Emphasizes a person's inherent qualities of mind and character, influencing their behavior.

the likelihood

Focuses on the probability or chance of something occurring, rather than the inherent inclination.

the proneness

Indicates a susceptibility or vulnerability to something, often negative.

the susceptibility

Focuses on being easily affected or influenced by something.

the readiness

Highlights the state of being prepared or willing to do something.

the aptitude

Refers to a natural ability or talent for something, rather than a general inclination.

the willingness

Emphasizes a voluntary inclination or readiness to do something.

FAQs

How can I use "the propensity" in a sentence?

You can use "the propensity" to describe a tendency or inclination towards something. For example, "He has "the propensity to procrastinate"" or "There is "the propensity for violence" in that region".

What's the difference between "the propensity" and "the tendency"?

While "the propensity" and "the tendency" are often used interchangeably, "the tendency" generally refers to a more observable pattern, whereas "the propensity" can refer to an inherent inclination that may not always be outwardly visible. However, in most contexts, using "the tendency" is a very close synonym.

Which preposition should I use after "the propensity"?

Typically, you'll use either "the propensity to" followed by a verb or "the propensity for" followed by a noun. For example, "the propensity to learn" or "the propensity for error".

What are some alternative phrases for "the propensity"?

You can use alternatives like "the inclination", "the tendency", or "the likelihood" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.