Synonyms of proclivity

proclivity

noun

prō-ˈkli-və-tē 

as in tendency

a habitual attraction to some activity or thing

showed artistic proclivities at an early age

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tendency
• inclination
• aptitude
• devices
• affinity
• predilection
• propensity
• predisposition
• affection
• penchant
• knack
• impulse
• disposition
• bias
• preference
• partiality
• bent
• addiction
• talent
• genius
• leaning
• bone
• turn
• appetite
• habitude
• gift
• flair
• prejudice
• liking
• fondness
• taste
• habit
• partisanship
• endowment
• favor
• faculty
• like
• practice
• one-sidedness
• speciality
• specialty
• forte
• idiosyncrasy
• pattern
• eccentricity
• quirk
• fancy
• peculiarity
• custom
• singularity
• routine
• convention
• way
• wont
• trick
• oddity
• kink

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aversion
• distaste
• dislike
• disinclination
• allergy
• disfavor
• neutrality
• objectivity
• detachment
• indifference
• impartiality
• averseness
• disliking
• disrelish
• apathy
• nonchalance
• unconcern
• disinterestedness
• insouciance

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun proclivity contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of proclivity are leaning, penchant, and propensity. While all these words mean "a strong instinct or liking for something," proclivity suggests a strong natural proneness usually to something objectionable or evil.

a proclivity for violence

When is it sensible to use leaning instead of proclivity?

While in some cases nearly identical to proclivity, leaning suggests a liking or attraction not strong enough to be decisive or uncontrollable.

a student with artistic leanings

Where would penchant be a reasonable alternative to proclivity?

The words penchant and proclivity can be used in similar contexts, but penchant implies a strongly marked taste in the person or an irresistible attraction in the object.

a penchant for taking risks

In what contexts can propensity take the place of proclivity?

The words propensity and proclivity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, propensity implies a deeply ingrained and usually irresistible inclination.

a propensity to offer advice

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of proclivity

If Gluck has willingly conceded to the anti-erotic proclivities of his intended audience, Araki has, naturally, set out to defy them. — Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 21 Aug. 2026

The eight-time Grammy winner also delved into his proclivity for art, explaining that his collection holds strong sentimental value. — Joyce Chen, Architectural Digest, 4 Aug. 2026

Harper bemoaned his proclivity for chasing bad pitches this month. — Matt Gelb, New York Times, 28 July 2026

As proven by these stylish stars and my own proclivity for the trend, gingham dresses are an effortlessly chic summer essential for all ages. — Jordan Julian, InStyle, 27 July 2026

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