Definition of predilectionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun predilection contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of predilection are bias, prejudice, and prepossession. While all these words mean "an attitude of mind that predisposes one to favor something," predilection implies a strong liking deriving from one's temperament or experience.

a predilection for travel

When could bias be used to replace predilection?

Although the words bias and predilection have much in common, bias implies an unreasoned and unfair distortion of judgment in favor of or against a person or thing.

a strong bias toward the plaintiff

When is it sensible to use prejudice instead of predilection?

The words prejudice and predilection can be used in similar contexts, but prejudice usually implies an unfavorable prepossession and connotes a feeling rooted in suspicion, fear, or intolerance.

a mindless prejudice against the unfamiliar

When can prepossession be used instead of predilection?

While the synonyms prepossession and predilection are close in meaning, prepossession suggests a fixed conception likely to preclude objective judgment of anything counter to it.

a prepossession against technology

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of predilection Thankfully, there’s a wonderful piece of technology called AI out there that’s perfect for realizing the juvenile aesthetic predilections of stunted creatives who want to wallow in an imagined idea of what the past was like. Frank Landymore, Futurism, 22 July 2026 Specifically more in the air and more to leftfield, given his past predilection to focus on the right side of the field, with his high-contact, low-strikeout approach that seems a contradiction to his muscular, slugger-type build. Marc Topkin, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026 Up until now, Rodrigo’s style reflected that musical predilection, with the singer’s rotation of plaid miniskirts and platform boots often landing as a hybrid mix between Gwen Stefani and Cher Horowitz. Chelsey Sanchez, CNN Money, 25 June 2026 Must enjoy long hours, a fluid work schedule — and an editorial chief with predilection for generating controversy. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for predilection
Recent Examples of Synonyms for predilection
Noun
  • Emery knows that his side are robust when battling adversity yet need to find a way to rectify blind spots in their game, such as the tendency to drift through certain matches and against specific tactical challenges.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Catholics have frequently exemplified the best and worst tendencies of American society.
    Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The ultimate challenge is winning backing from rural states and from Republicans with little inclination to lift a finger for left-leaning Hollywood.
    Gene Maddaus, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026
  • While your first inclination might be to use a face or body scrub, dermatologists recommend a gentle moisturizer packed with rich emollients and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).
    Mary Honkus, Glamour, 18 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • However, the Jets feel that Klubnik has good mental processing and the aptitude for explosive plays downfield.
    Antwan Staley, New York Daily News, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Many of its rites can be performed by anyone, but there have often been individuals with a special aptitude for and knowledge of these practices.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Apple's AirTag is among the popular devices that help people find their keys or other items.
    Nicholas Lentz, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026
  • On July 28, the nearby city of Stoughton also voted to cancel its own Flock contract, paying a $12,500 early buyout fee after intense local opposition to the devices.
    Nate Anderson, ArsTechnica, 17 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Settling that borders and distance cannot fail to erase the affinity and care that can arise in a mere meeting.
    Leo Barraclough, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The movie is inspired by Gavras’ affinity for mythology, having grown up listening to his father interweave tales with myths.
    Rebecca Aizin, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • During an interview with The Independent in May, Panettiere recalled how she was lauded for her acting skills at a very early age and began to associate professional praise with maternal affection.
    Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 18 Aug. 2026
  • This is good energy for making the invitation, sharing the draft, or showing affection first.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Predilection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/predilection. Accessed 22 Aug. 2026.

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