Synonyms of proclivity

proclivity

noun

prō-ˈkli-və-tē 

as in tendency

a habitual attraction to some activity or thing

showed artistic proclivities at an early age

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tendency
• inclination
• aptitude
• devices
• affinity
• predilection
• propensity
• affection
• predisposition
• penchant
• knack
• impulse
• disposition
• bias
• preference
• partiality
• bent
• addiction
• talent
• genius
• leaning
• bone
• turn
• appetite
• habitude
• gift
• flair
• prejudice
• liking
• fondness
• taste
• habit
• partisanship
• endowment
• favor
• faculty
• like
• practice
• speciality
• one-sidedness
• specialty
• forte
• idiosyncrasy
• pattern
• practise
• eccentricity
• quirk
• fancy
• peculiarity
• custom
• singularity
• routine
• convention
• way
• wont
• trick
• oddity
• kink

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aversion
• distaste
• dislike
• disinclination
• allergy
• disfavor
• neutrality
• objectivity
• detachment
• indifference
• impartiality
• averseness
• disliking
• disrelish
• apathy
• nonchalance
• unconcern
• disinterestedness
• insouciance

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun proclivity contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of proclivity are leaning, penchant, and propensity. While all these words mean "a strong instinct or liking for something," proclivity suggests a strong natural proneness usually to something objectionable or evil.

a proclivity for violence

When is it sensible to use leaning instead of proclivity?

While in some cases nearly identical to proclivity, leaning suggests a liking or attraction not strong enough to be decisive or uncontrollable.

a student with artistic leanings

Where would penchant be a reasonable alternative to proclivity?

The words penchant and proclivity can be used in similar contexts, but penchant implies a strongly marked taste in the person or an irresistible attraction in the object.

a penchant for taking risks

In what contexts can propensity take the place of proclivity?

The words propensity and proclivity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, propensity implies a deeply ingrained and usually irresistible inclination.

a propensity to offer advice

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of proclivity

And More—Had Homes Destroyed Along With Historic Landmarks Again, Nina has shown zero proclivity to violence. —Paul Tassi, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025

While Princess Charlene’s style tends to include high-profile design houses and sleek apparel, her recent proclivity for the quiet luxury trend has certainly grown. —Julia Teti, WWD, 29 Jan. 2025

Experts are mixed on its benefits Indeed, Cook is not alone in his proclivity for spending each day the same way. —Jeff John Roberts, Fortune, 24 Jan. 2025

The Prince of Wales is also participated in some of the sporty activities that the hub has like boxing and foosball — no surprise given his athletic proclivities! —Janine Henni, People.com, 21 Jan. 2025

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