What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
propensity
Example
She has a propensity for taking risks. [propensity: noun]
Example
He is prone to procrastination due to his propensity for distraction. [propensity: noun]
tendency
Example
There is a tendency for people to overspend during the holiday season. [tendency: noun]
Example
Her tendency to overthink often leads to indecision. [tendency: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tendency is more commonly used than propensity in everyday language. Tendency is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while propensity is less common and tends to be used in more specific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between propensity and tendency?
Propensity is generally considered more formal than tendency. It is often used in academic or technical writing, while tendency can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
