Definition of propensitynext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun propensity contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of propensity are leaning, penchant, and proclivity. While all these words mean "a strong instinct or liking for something," propensity implies a deeply ingrained and usually irresistible inclination.

a propensity to offer advice

When is it sensible to use leaning instead of propensity?

The meanings of leaning and propensity largely overlap; however, leaning suggests a liking or attraction not strong enough to be decisive or uncontrollable.

a student with artistic leanings

When can penchant be used instead of propensity?

The words penchant and propensity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, penchant implies a strongly marked taste in the person or an irresistible attraction in the object.

a penchant for taking risks

When could proclivity be used to replace propensity?

The synonyms proclivity and propensity are sometimes interchangeable, but proclivity suggests a strong natural proneness usually to something objectionable or evil.

a proclivity for violence

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 propensity For the second season in a row, Darnold demonstrated a propensity for highs and lows. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 1 Feb. 2026 But underneath the accolades and longevity lies the inspiring humility of a man, who has a propensity for creative reinvention. Deasia Paige, AJC.com, 30 Jan. 2026 This required greater propensity for risk-taking, and in indigenous societies, risk-taking was often rewarded with honor and status. Christopher Ferguson, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026 The coat is a piece that even those with a propensity for neutrals can't overlook. Samantha Brash, InStyle, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for propensity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for propensity
Noun
  • If readers are at all uncertain of his sociopathic tendencies, Heathcliff then hangs his wife’s dog.
    Natasha O'Neill, Vanity Fair, 13 Feb. 2026
  • The Turkish experience also speaks to the tendency of diasporas to become politically frozen at the moment of departure from their home countries.
    Michael Paarlberg, The Conversation, 12 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • This is because when people lose weight, the body’s natural inclination is to return to its previous weight – a phenomenon called metabolic adaptation.
    Amy J. Sheer, The Conversation, 5 Feb. 2026
  • The 11 satellites on board are flying to a mid-inclination orbit.
    Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The council in 2024 rejected a 498-unit apartment complex nearby in Deer Canyon over similar concerns related to evacuations and the area’s proneness to blazes.
    Victoria Le, Oc Register, 14 Jan. 2026
  • Both Max’s debut LP, Heaven & Hell, and her sophomore album, Diamonds and Dancefloors, were pushed back for release because of leaks, and Max has addressed her music’s proneness to making its way online before release in the past.
    Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • In the era of collaboration, globalization, and entrepreneurship, EQ surpassed IQ as the must-have aptitude for an interconnected world.
    Big Think, Big Think, 3 Feb. 2026
  • The Broncos expect Stidham to play well given his mental aptitude, preparation and personality.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 22 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • In September, a swarm of Russian drones flew into Poland's airspace, prompting NATO aircraft to scramble to intercept them and shoot down some of the devices.
    DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE STAFF FROM WIRE REPORTS, Arkansas Online, 6 Feb. 2026
  • The countries announced a framework for the agreement in November, saying Argentina would ease restrictions on a range of American imports, including cattle, dairy products, medicines, chemicals, machinery, medical devices and vehicles.
    Isabel Debre, Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The Athletic Club Oakland was a haven for sports-lovers of all affinities.
    John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Chris and Mike have always supported their kids’ affinity for the game and often put on a realistic lens.
    Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 8 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Propensity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/propensity. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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