vague inclination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vague inclination" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a general or unclear tendency or feeling towards something without a strong commitment. Example: "She had a vague inclination to pursue a career in art, but she wasn't sure if it was the right path for her."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Their relation to mental states is ultimately left open; some of Vitiello's accounts suggest a vague inclination toward a dual-aspect approach.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But those vague inclinations don't help much with the technical choices that Brexit demands.

The Guardian - Opinion

And in a world where "screenwriter" seems increasingly to be the default occupation for anyone of vaguely artistic inclinations, any technology that convinces more people that they can write a movie, is hardly one to be encouraged.

The Guardian - Film

We study for three years focused on one thing, chafing against our natural inclination toward myriad interests, with the vague expectation of a better job.

The Guardian

They carried with them elements of traditional folk that have been a part of popular music ever since: a devotion to authenticity (or an approximation thereof), an inclination to leftist politics (or a vague liberalism), and, above all, a faith in the folk ethic -- the notion that music is a democratic, amateur art, a mode of vernacular expression available to anyone without formal training.

The New York Times

And besides, there was a moment after the first TV debate when boasting of Lib Dem inclination was a kind of proxy for asserting a vague constitutional right to resist the status quo.

The Guardian - Opinion

Critics say the Big Society is too vague and ill-defined to appeal to voters, asking whether many people have time or inclination to get involved in running services or in community work.

The Telegraph

That March, I read "The Trial," which I vaguely recall being recommended to me by some other young man of high seriousness and literary inclination — but precisely which such young man now escapes me.

The New Yorker

And with an inclination to talk to his foes, Mr. Obama's excitement in the Muslim world lies less on his vaguely having a Muslim grandfather than on the simple fact that he's lived in the Muslim world and is not another warmongering Bush Republican.

The New York Times

Or inclination.

The New Yorker

Sheer inclination also matters.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "vague inclination", ensure the surrounding context clarifies the subject towards which the inclination is directed, even if the inclination itself remains undefined. This prevents ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the general direction of the sentiment.

Common error

Avoid using "vague inclination" when describing strong desires or firm decisions. This phrase suggests uncertainty and a lack of commitment, so it's inappropriate when describing definitive actions or feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague inclination" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "vague" modifies the noun "inclination". It describes a tenuous or undefined tendency towards something. Ludwig AI validates its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vague inclination" denotes a weak or undefined tendency, fitting contexts where uncertainty or a lack of firm commitment is intended. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness for describing sentiments lacking clear direction. While not exceedingly common, its occurrence in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian validates its use. Related phrases such as "slight tendency" and "weak preference" can serve as effective substitutes depending on the specific nuance to be conveyed. When employing this phrase, ensure the context adequately clarifies the subject of the inclination to avoid ambiguity, and refrain from using it when describing strong desires or resolute decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight tendency

Emphasizes the mild nature of the inclination.

weak preference

Highlights the lack of strong conviction in the preference.

undefined leaning

Focuses on the lack of clarity or definition in the inclination.

general predisposition

Indicates a broad and not specifically directed tendency.

mild propensity

Stresses the gentle and not compelling nature of the tendency.

unclear bent

Highlights the lack of clarity in the direction of the inclination.

tenuous desire

Suggests a fragile and easily swayed desire.

ill-defined urge

Emphasizes the lack of clear boundaries or definition in the urge.

indistinct proclivity

Focuses on the difficulty in discerning the precise nature of the proclivity.

shadowy motivation

Implies a hidden or not fully understood reason for the inclination.

FAQs

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

You can use "vague inclination" to describe a slight or not-well-defined tendency towards something. For example, "She had a vague inclination to study abroad, but hadn't made any concrete plans".

What's the difference between "vague inclination" and "strong desire"?

"Vague inclination" implies a weak or undefined tendency, while "strong desire" suggests a powerful and clear feeling or motivation.

Which is more appropriate, "vague inclination" or "firm resolve" when describing indecision?

"Vague inclination" is more appropriate when describing a state of indecision because it conveys uncertainty. "Firm resolve" implies a decided course of action.

What are some alternatives to "vague inclination"?

Some alternatives to "vague inclination" include "slight tendency", "weak preference", or "undefined leaning", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.