The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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proclivity

noun

/prəˈklɪvɪti/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of proclivity

A tendency or inclination towards a particular type of behavior or activity.
"She had a proclivity for getting into trouble, despite her parents' warnings."

Detailed meaning of proclivity

It can also refer to a person's natural disposition or predilection for something. For example, someone might have a proclivity for music, meaning that they have a strong inclination towards music and enjoy it more than other activities. Or someone might have a proclivity for gambling, meaning that they have a tendency to be drawn to gambling activities.

Proclivity can also imply a certain level of vulnerability to indulge in a certain behavior or activity, especially if it is considered negative or detrimental. For example, someone might have a proclivity for alcohol, meaning they have a tendency to consume alcohol excessively, or someone might have a proclivity for aggression, meaning they have a tendency to act aggressively in different situations.

The word "proclivity" comes from the Latin "proclivitatem" which means "inclination" or "slope" and it can be used to describe both positive and negative tendencies.

Example sentences containing proclivity

1. His proclivity for adventure made him the first to volunteer for the hike.
2. She had a proclivity for drama, always finding herself in complicated situations.
3. The student's proclivity for math became evident through his exceptional grades.
4. With a proclivity for leadership, she naturally took charge of the project.
5. His proclivity for sweets often led him to the dessert section of the buffet.
6. Her proclivity for reading made her the perfect candidate for the book club.

History and etymology of proclivity

The noun 'proclivity' has its etymological origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'proclivitas,' which combines 'pro-' (meaning 'forward' or 'toward') and 'clivus' (meaning 'slope' or 'incline'). Thus, 'proclivity' etymologically signifies a leaning or inclination toward something, as if one were figuratively moving downhill in that direction. This word has evolved to describe a person's natural tendency or inclination towards a particular type of behavior or activity. The etymology of 'proclivity' emphasizes the idea of a predisposition or a leaning in a specific direction, highlighting an individual's inherent inclination or leaning toward certain behaviors or activities.

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Further usage examples of proclivity

1. The dog had a proclivity for digging holes in the yard, much to the owner's dismay.
2. His proclivity for late nights made him the ideal staff for the graveyard shift.
3. Her proclivity for detail-oriented tasks made her excel in the audit department.
4. The athlete's proclivity for discipline made him a great fit for the rigorous training.
5. With a proclivity for punctuality, she was always the first one in the office.
6. His proclivity for sarcasm often got him into trouble during serious discussions.
7. Her proclivity for gardening turned the small yard into a flourishing oasis.
8. He had a proclivity for taking risks, which made him a successful entrepreneur.
9. The child's proclivity for painting suggested a future career in the arts.
10. His proclivity for storytelling made him the life of every social gathering.
11. She had a proclivity for solving puzzles, which suited her analytical mindset.
12. The politician had a proclivity for public speaking, making him popular at rallies.
13. His proclivity for procrastination often left him scrambling to meet deadlines.
14. The musician's proclivity for jazz influenced the band's unique sound.
15. With a proclivity for languages, she easily picked up the basics of Mandarin.
16. The cat had a proclivity for climbing trees, often needing to be rescued.
17. His proclivity for perfectionism led him to spend hours editing his work.
18. She had a proclivity for charity work, always volunteering on weekends.
19. The detective's proclivity for attention to detail helped solve many cases.
20. Her proclivity for fashion made her the go-to person for style advice.
21. The team's proclivity for teamwork made them the champions of the league.
22. His proclivity for spontaneity often led to unplanned but exciting trips.
23. With a proclivity for cooking, she turned simple ingredients into gourmet meals.
24. His proclivity for arguing made him a formidable opponent in any debate.