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Incline: meaning, definitions and examples

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incline

 

[ɪnˈklaɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

slope

To bend or slant away from the vertical or horizontal; to have a slope or gradient.

Synonyms

lean, slope, tilt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incline

Used to describe a surface that slants or goes upward at an angle, often in a formal or technical context.

  • The steep incline made the climb more challenging.
  • The road has a gentle incline, making it easier for cyclists.
slope

Refers to any land or surface that has an angle, either up or down. Commonly used in contexts related to geography, construction, or skiing.

  • The slope of the hill made it perfect for skiing.
  • The house was built on a gradual slope.
lean

Often used to describe the position of a person or object that is not standing or resting straight and is slanted at an angle. It may also refer to relying on someone or something for support.

  • She had to lean against the wall to catch her breath.
  • He leaned his bike against the tree.
tilt

Describes the action of moving something so that it is at an angle rather than straight. Often used when talking about adjusting the position of an object.

  • You can tilt the chair back for more comfort.
  • She tilted her head to the side, thinking deeply.

Examples of usage

  • The road inclined steeply towards the mountain village.
  • The roof inclined at a sharp angle.
Context #2 | Noun

tendency

A slope; a slant; a tendency or predisposition towards a particular action or belief.

Synonyms

gradient, slope, tendency.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
incline

This term can also describe a physical slope or angle and is commonly used in contexts related to terrain or surfaces.

  • The path takes you up a gentle incline.
  • Cycling up the incline was exhausting, but the view at the top was worth it.
slope

Use 'slope' when referring to a physical surface that is slanted or tilted. This term is common in everyday language and often used in geographical or construction contexts.

  • The kids loved to sled down the steep slope.
  • The house was built on a slight slope to allow for better drainage.
gradient

This term is often used in scientific and mathematical contexts to describe the degree of steepness of a slope, or the rate of change of a quantity over a distance.

  • The gradient of the mountain made the hike very challenging.
  • In calculus, we learn about the gradient of a function.
tendency

This word is used to describe the usual behavior or inclination of someone or something without much emphasis on physical or scientific angles. Tendency can carry a slightly negative connotation if describing undesirable behaviors.

  • He has a tendency to procrastinate.
  • Her tendency to be late has become a problem.

Examples of usage

  • There was an incline on the hiking trail.
  • She had an incline towards artistic pursuits.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'inclinare', meaning 'to bend' or 'to lean'.
  • In the 14th century, it first appeared in the English language, emphasizing physical leaning.
  • The modern use includes both physical slopes and figurative meanings, such as having a tendency.

Physics

  • Inclines are essential in understanding gravitational force; the steeper the incline, the faster an object rolls down.
  • They are used in ramps for accessibility, helping people move from one level to another.
  • The concept of incline is crucial in engineering, particularly in designing roads and railways to ensure safety and efficiency.

Psychology

  • An inclination towards certain behaviors indicates personal preferences or tendencies in decision-making.
  • The concept of inclination can relate to how our environments and experiences shape our choices and attitudes.
  • Research suggests that people may subconsciously lean towards options that resonate with their values or past experiences.

Literature

  • In poetry, inclines can symbolize life's ups and downs, portraying challenges and growth.
  • Authors often use inclines as metaphors for personal journeys, reflecting internal struggles or motivations.
  • Inclination appears in characters' arcs, where characters might lean towards certain choices due to circumstances or relationships.

Culture

  • In architecture, inclusive design incorporates inclined surfaces to make spaces more accessible.
  • Many sports utilize inclines, from skiing on snowy slopes to cycling on hills, highlighting both challenge and exhilaration.
  • Inclined planes have historical significance, such as in ancient Egypt for constructing pyramids, showcasing engineering ingenuity.

Translations

Translations of the word "incline" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inclinação

🇮🇳 झुकाव

🇩🇪 Neigung

🇮🇩 kemiringan

🇺🇦 нахил

🇵🇱 nachylenie

🇯🇵 傾斜 (けいしゃ)

🇫🇷 inclinaison

🇪🇸 inclinación

🇹🇷 eğim

🇰🇷 경사

🇸🇦 ميل

🇨🇿 sklon

🇸🇰 sklon

🇨🇳 倾斜 (qīngxié)

🇸🇮 nagib

🇮🇸 hallandi

🇰🇿 еңіс

🇬🇪 დახრილობა

🇦🇿 meyil

🇲🇽 inclinación

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,404, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.