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Definitions

tendency

[ten-duhn-see] / ˈtɛn dən si /
NOUN
inclination to think or do in a certain way
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bias habit impulse leaning penchant propensity shift trend type weakness
STRONG
addiction affection bent current custom disposition drift inclining liability mind mindset partiality predilection predisposition proclivity proneness readiness run set slant susceptibility temperament thing turn usage way
Antonyms
STRONGEST
dislike hate
STRONG
antipathy disinclination disinterest hatred
NOUN
direction of movement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bias inclination leaning movement shift trend
STRONG
aim bearing bent course current curve drift drive heading purport run tenor turn turning way

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Women have a tendency to talk themselves “out of the big jobs,” and she didn’t want that to happen to her.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Much of the frying process occurs under negative pressure, which increases the tendency for oil to be pulled into the food.

From Science Daily • Apr. 2, 2026

This refers to the tendency for consumers to spend more when their assets — including things like their stock portfolios or homes — grow in value, even if their income levels stay the same.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

Essiedu says there can be a tendency to view miscarriage only as a physical issue.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

It was not a deadly disease as it was in 1917 but with children it had a tendency to go into the mastoids.

From "Cannery Row" by John Steinbeck