Propensity Meaning and Definition
Propensity
Pronunciation
/ˈprɑpəsɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A natural tendency or inclination to behave in a certain way, or to exhibit a particular trait or characteristic.
Examples
- He has a propensity for taking risks and often finds himself in trouble.
- She has a propensity for procrastination and often puts off important tasks.
Synonyms
- Tendency
- Inclination
- Predisposition
Antonyms
- Virtue
- Discipline
Etymology
The word “propensity” comes from the Latin “propensitas”, meaning “natural inclination” or “tendency”, which is derived from “propens”, meaning “inclined” or “tending towards”.
Usage Notes
When describing a person’s propensity, it’s often used to imply a habitual or habitual behavior. For example, “he has a propensity for procrastination”, implies that he tends to put off tasks frequently.
Cultural References
The word “propensity” has been used in various contexts in literature and popular culture. For example, in Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the character Ophelia says “My propensities are bent to trifles”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A propensity for something implies a strong inclination or tendency towards it. For example, “he has a propensity for getting into trouble”.
Related Words or Phrases
- Disposition
- Tendency
- Inclination
Collocations
- Has a propensity for
- Exhibition of propensities
- Beset by propensities
Frequency of Use
The word “propensity” is not as commonly used as some other words related to tendencies or inclinations, but it is still widely used in formal writing and academic contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Propensety
- Proneness
- Propensitate