Disposition: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when talking about someone's usual mood or general attitude, or how things are arranged naturally.

• She has a cheerful disposition that makes everyone around her feel happy.
• The disposition of the furniture in the room created a sense of openness.

Use when referring to the way things are organized or set up, often in a deliberate or planned way.

• The flowers were placed in a beautiful arrangement on the table.
• We need to make some arrangements for our trip next week.

Use when referring to the specific location or position where something is placed.

• The placement of the new sculpture was perfect, adding to the room's overall aesthetic.
• Her placement in the company was strategic and well thought out.

Use when discussing the structure or arrangement of something, particularly in a methodical or efficient manner.

• Good organization helps to increase productivity in the office.
• The event's organization was so well done, everything went smoothly.

Use when talking about a state of being neat or organized, or a command or instruction.

• The documents were kept in perfect order on the shelf.
• The manager gave an order to stop the production immediately.

Use 'disposition' when referring to someone's general mood or attitude towards life. It's often used in formal or medical contexts.

• She has a cheerful disposition, always smiling and optimistic.
• His peaceful disposition makes him well-suited for a career in counseling.

Use 'temperament' to refer to someone's typical mood or emotional state, often in connection with how it affects their reactions and behavior. It is sometimes used in psychological contexts.

• Her calm temperament helps her handle stress effectively.
• Dogs with a gentle temperament are often easier to train.

Use 'character' when referring to someone's set of moral and mental qualities. It is often used to describe ethical and integrity aspects.

• He is a man of strong character who always stands up for what is right.
• Her character is defined by her honesty and kindness.

Use 'nature' when referring to someone's inherent qualities, especially those that they were born with. It can also relate to someone's basic essence.

• By nature, he is a very curious and adventurous person.
• Her caring nature makes her an excellent nurse.

Use 'personality' when talking about the combination of characteristics or qualities that form an individual's distinctive character. It's often used in both casual and formal contexts.

• She has a bright and bubbly personality that lights up the room.
• His personality is what makes him a great leader—he's both assertive and empathetic.

This word is best used to describe someone's general mood or attitude. It refers to the natural qualities of a person's character.

• She has a cheerful disposition that brightens up any room

Use in situations where someone has the ability to direct or manage something or someone. It often implies a direct and active role in managing outcomes.

• He needed to maintain control of the situation

This word is appropriate when talking about someone's official or socially recognized power to give orders or make decisions. It often comes with a sense of responsibility.

• The teacher has the authority to discipline the students

This word is versatile and can be used both officially and unofficially to describe the ability or capacity to influence others or make things happen. It can have a negative connotation if misused.

• Her position gives her the power to make significant changes in the company

Ideal for situations that involve independence or self-governance. It emphasizes freedom from external control or influence.

• The region was granted greater autonomy to manage its own affairs