proclivity
Definitions
A strong natural tendency or inclination, often toward something undesirable
（天生的强烈）倾向，癖好（常指不良的）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedpro- (forward) + clīvus (slope, the noun cousin of clīnāre) + -ity = 'a forward slope.' A proclivity is a leaning forward toward something — a deep-seated tendency, often used for bad habits or vices.
Root clin still carries 13 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.natural proclivity天生的倾向
- 2.proclivity for violence暴力倾向
- 3.sexual proclivity性癖好
- 4.[proclivity toward]对……的偏好
Example Sentences
- 1.
He showed an early proclivity for taking dangerous risks.
- 2.
The species has a proclivity for nesting near water.
Synonym Comparison
- proclivity — a deep, often negative leaning, formal: a proclivity for violence
- tendency — neutral and general, the everyday word: a tendency to overeat
- inclination — a milder leaning or preference: an inclination to agree
- penchant — a strong liking, usually positive: a penchant for fine wine
- propensity — formal near-synonym of proclivity, slightly more neutral