Predisposed: meaning, definitions and examples

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predisposed

[ˌpriː.dɪˈspəʊzd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

mental health

Having a tendency to suffer from a particular condition or to act in a certain way. It can refer to a genetic or environmental predisposition.

Synonyms

disposed, inclined, prone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
predisposed	This word is typically used to describe someone's natural tendency or susceptibility to something, usually due to genetics or prior experiences. It often has a neutral to slightly negative connotation when it refers to being susceptible to negative outcomes. She is genetically predisposed to diabetes. His past trauma has left him predisposed to anxiety.
inclined	This word is commonly used to describe a tendency or preference for something. It is quite neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. I am inclined to agree with you. She is inclined to choose quieter places for vacation.
prone	Typically used to indicate a tendency to experience something negative, like mistakes, illnesses, or accidents. It has a slightly stronger negative connotation than 'predisposed.' He is prone to getting colds during winter. The old bridge is prone to collapse in heavy rain.
disposed	Generally, this word means being willing or inclined to something, often used in more formal or polite contexts. It can also mean getting rid of something, which is a completely different usage. I am well disposed toward your proposal. He seems disposed to help us with the project.

Examples of usage

She is genetically predisposed to anxiety disorders.
Children of alcoholics may be predisposed to alcoholism.
Individuals with a family history of diabetes may be predisposed to the condition.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

opinion

Having a preference or inclination for something. It can refer to a predisposition towards a certain belief or opinion.

Synonyms

biased, inclined, partial.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
predisposed	Use when describing a natural tendency or inclination towards something, often due to genetics, upbringing, or inherent characteristics. It can refer to both positive and neutral situations. She is predisposed to enjoy classical music because her parents always played it at home. People with a family history of diabetes are more predisposed to developing the condition themselves.
inclined	Use when expressing a general tendency or willingness to act or feel in a certain way. It can be used in neutral contexts. He is inclined to believe in the goodness of people. I'm inclined to agree with you on this issue.
biased	This word is suitable when describing a prejudice or unfair tendency to favor one side, often ignoring evidence or reasoning. It has a negative connotation. The judge was removed from the case because he was found to be biased against the defendant. News outlets are often criticized for being biased in their reporting.
partial	This word is used when showing favoritism or a strong preference for something or someone, sometimes despite evidence to the contrary. It often has a slightly negative connotation. She is very partial to chocolate desserts. The referee was accused of being partial towards the home team.

Examples of usage

She is predisposed to believe in the goodness of people.
He is predisposed to support progressive policies.
I am predisposed to think positively in challenging situations.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Latin, 'praedisponere,' meaning 'to put in a particular order' or 'to arrange beforehand'.
It first appeared in English literature in the mid-17th century, linking it to the idea of being inclined or tending toward something.
The prefix 'pre-' indicates a state of being set before anything happens.

Psychology

Individuals can be predisposed to certain mental health conditions due to both genetic and environmental factors.
Research suggests that early childhood experiences can shape predispositions, influencing behaviors in adulthood.
Behavioral predispositions can affect how people respond to stress, impacting their overall well-being.

Health & Medicine

Certain health conditions can have genetic predispositions, meaning some individuals are more likely to develop them than others.
For example, a family history of heart disease may predispose an individual to a similar fate, leading to lifestyle adjustments.
Understanding predispositions can aid in preventative healthcare strategies, tailoring approaches for at-risk populations.

Social Sciences

Cultural background can predispose individuals to specific worldviews or behaviors, reflecting societal norms.
A person's social environment can predispose them towards certain opportunities or challenges in life.
Sociologists study how socioeconomic factors might predispose groups to certain lifestyle choices.

Education

Students’ predispositions toward subjects can greatly influence their academic performance and career choices.
Teachers often adapt their methods, recognizing that students may be predisposed to learn in different ways.
Early exposure to various subjects can help nurture or challenge a student's predisposed interests.

Translations

Translations of the word "predisposed" in other languages:

🇵🇹 predisposto

🇮🇳 पूर्वाग्रहित

🇩🇪 veranlagt

🇮🇩 terdorong

🇺🇦 схильний

🇵🇱 predysponowany

🇯🇵 傾向がある

🇫🇷 prédisposé

🇪🇸 predispuesto

🇹🇷 eğilimli

🇰🇷 경향이 있는

🇸🇦 مستعد

🇨🇿 náchylný

🇸🇰 náchylný

🇨🇳 倾向于

🇸🇮 nagnjen

🇮🇸 hneigður

🇰🇿 бейім

🇬🇪 წინასწარ განწყობილი

🇦🇿 meyilli

🇲🇽 predispuesto

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,494, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
19491 shameless
19492 awed
19493 sagging
19494 predisposed
19495 tongs
19496 attestation
19497 jeopardized
...