Tendency: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a general direction in which something is developing or changing, often over a period of time.

• There is a tendency for older adults to experience difficulty with memory.
• The company has a tendency to stick to traditional marketing methods.

Refers to a person's natural way of wanting to act or feel a certain way. Often used in personal contexts.

• She has a strong inclination towards helping others in need.
• My natural inclination is to avoid conflict whenever possible.

Used to describe a natural tendency to behave in a particular way, especially a tendency that may be viewed negatively.

• He has a propensity to procrastinate when it comes to doing his homework.
• There is a propensity for people to panic in emergency situations.

Refers to the general direction in which something is moving, usually in a more specific or shorter time frame, often used in contexts like fashion, technology, and social behavior.

• The latest trend in technology is the development of AI tools.
• There is a growing trend towards remote work in many industries.

Indicates a preference or a predisposition towards something, often used in a more casual or softer context.

• He has a leaning for classical music.
• Her political leanings are more conservative than liberal.

Used when referring to a general pattern of behavior or inclination over time.

• He has a tendency to procrastinate
• There is a strong tendency for people to move to urban areas

Used to indicate a general direction in which something is developing or changing, often in social, economic, or fashion contexts.

• There is a growing trend towards remote work
• This season’s fashion trends include bold colors and patterns

Used to describe the course or path on which something is moving or pointing.

• The company is taking a new direction in its marketing strategy
• The wind is changing direction

Used when referring to the path followed by an object moving under the action of given forces, or metaphorically for a course of events or progress over time.

• The rocket's trajectory was carefully calculated
• His career trajectory shows a steady rise to the top