Predispose Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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predispose
[หpriหdษชsหpoสz ]
Definition
influence tendency
To predispose means to make someone or something inclined towards a certain condition or outcome. It often implies a tendency that is influenced by external factors such as genetics, environment, or experiences. For example, one might be predisposed to a certain illness due to familial genetics or predisposed to a particular skill through early exposure. The concept often relates to psychological or biological factors that lay the groundwork for future behavior or health.
Synonyms
dispose, incline, prone, tend.
Examples of usage
- Her family history predisposes her to diabetes.
- Early exposure to music can predispose children to enjoy it later.
- Certain genes may predispose individuals to anxiety.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that genetic factors can predispose individuals to certain behaviors or psychological conditions.
- Environmental influences in childhood can also predispose someone to specific moral or social beliefs later in life.
- The concept plays a significant role in understanding risk factors in mental health, indicating that predisposition is often a combination of nature and nurture.
Health
- Certain genetic markers predispose individuals to health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
- Lifestyle choices like diet and exercise can either predispose someone to better health or to chronic illnesses.
- Understanding these predispositions is vital for preventive healthcare strategies.
Culture
- Cultural beliefs and societal norms can predispose individuals to different attitudes and behaviors across various communities.
- Historical events often predispose societies to future conflicts or cooperation based on past interactions.
- Art and popular media can also predispose public opinion regarding important social issues.
Education
- Early educational experiences can predispose children to develop a love for learning or, conversely, aversion to it.
- Teachers' expectations can predispose students to perform better or worse, a phenomenon known as the 'Pygmalion effect'.
- Curriculums designed with inclusive practices may predispose students to embrace diversity and equality.
Origin of 'predispose'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'praedisponere', where 'prae' means 'before' and 'disponere' means 'to arrange'.
- It has been used in English since the early 17th century, evolving in meaning over time.
- Its components suggest a sense of arranging something in advance, aligning well with its current meaning.
The word 'predispose' originates from the Latin word 'praedisponere,' which means 'to arrange or prepare beforehand.' The prefix 'pre-' denotes 'before,' and 'disponere' means 'to arrange.' The term began to appear in the English language around the early 17th century, primarily in medical and psychological contexts. Over time, it broadened to encompass various fields such as sociology, where it describes predisposition to certain behaviors or social outcomes. The word reflects the interplay between various factors that can influence an individual's path, leading to its current usage in both scientific and everyday discussions.