Inclination

in-kluh-NAY-shun

/ˌɪŋ.klɪˈneɪ.ʃən/

Noun

Meaning

  • Inclination refers to a natural tendency, preference, or urge to behave in a certain way or to feel a particular liking toward something.
  • It can also refer to a slant, tilt, or degree of angle in physical or mathematical contexts.

Examples

  • She had an inclination to help others, even when it was difficult.
  • His artistic inclination became clear at a young age.
  • The tower has a slight inclination to the east.
  • I have no inclination to argue with you today.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms Antonyms
Tendency Preference Propensity Disposition Leaning Predisposition Penchant Bias Disinclination Aversion Indifference Unwillingness Deterrence

Word Forms

  • Inclinations (plural noun)
  • Inclined (adjective / verb form)
  • Inclining (verb form)

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English inclinacioun, derived from Latin inclinatio, meaning “a bending, leaning, or tendency,” from inclinare (“to lean, bend toward”).

Grammar Information

  • Countable noun: “She has an inclination toward science.”
  • Uncountable noun: “He acted out of inclination, not obligation.”
  • Common patterns: inclination to + verb, inclination toward/towards + noun, inclination for + noun
  • Examples: “inclination to help,” “inclination towards art,” “inclination for music”

Translations

  • Hindi: झुकाव / प्रवृत्ति
  • Spanish: inclinación
  • French: inclination
  • German: Neigung
  • Chinese (Mandarin): 倾向
  • Arabic: ميل / نزعة
  • Japanese: 傾向 (keikō)
  • Russian: склонность

Idioms & Phrases

  • Natural inclination – a strong inner tendency.
  • Have no inclination – lacking desire or willingness.
  • Follow one’s inclinations – act according to one’s tendencies or desires.

Related Words

  • Incline
  • Decline
  • Predisposition
  • Tendency
  • Disposition
  • Bias