What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inclination
Example
I have an inclination towards music and art. [inclination: noun]
Example
The tower has a slight inclination towards the north. [inclination: noun]
Example
She had no inclination to go out after a long day at work. [inclination: noun]
tendency
Example
There is a tendency for people to procrastinate when faced with a difficult task. [tendency: noun]
Example
He has a tendency to interrupt others when they are speaking. [tendency: noun]
Example
The stock market has shown a downward tendency in recent weeks. [tendency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tendency is more commonly used than inclination in academic or technical contexts, while inclination is more commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inclination and tendency?
Tendency is generally considered more formal than inclination, which is more casual and conversational in tone.
