PROCLIVITY Synonyms: 77 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

proclivity

noun

prō-ˈkli-və-tē

Definition of proclivity next

as in tendency

a habitual attraction to some activity or thing showed artistic proclivities at an early age

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of proclivity 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 Image That an actress of her indie proclivities would choose to head a network show still comes as a surprise. —

Alexis Soloski, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2025 That proclivity for conversation is useful in such a species whose feeding habits depend on making collective use of a tree. —

Jessica Camille Aguirre, Smithsonian Magazine, 6 Jan. 2025 Yet over the course of the episode, Mescal’s dramatic proclivities created the evening’s more imaginative comedy. —

Amanda Wicks, The Atlantic, 8 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for proclivity

Recent Examples of Synonyms for proclivity

Noun

Poppies have a tendency to self-sow or naturalize in the garden.

— Joshua Siskin, Orange County Register, 15 Feb. 2025
The enclosures surround the vehicles’ lithium ion batteries, which have a tendency to spontaneously ignite at extremely hot temperatures that are difficult for firefighters to suppress.

— Katherine Love, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2025