Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for predilection.
Definitions

predilection

[pred-l-ek-shuhn, preed-] / ˌprɛd lˈɛk ʃən, ˌprid- /
NOUN
inclination, preference toward something
Synonyms
STRONGEST
fondness leaning penchant predisposition proclivity propensity
STRONG
bent bias dish druthers fancy flash groove inclining liking love mindset partiality proneness taste tendency thing type weakness
WEAK
cup of tea
Antonyms
STRONGEST
disinclination dislike hate hatred
STRONG
fairness impartiality
WEAK
antipathy disinterest

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for predilection?
A predilection is a partiality, predisposition, or an inclination, especially for liking or preferring something (in which case you could call it a fondness). The word predilection can imply that this is stronger than a preference—that it’s more of a tendency.
Is it predilection to or predilection for?
We say that someone has a predilection for something, and we also say partiality for, fondness for, and preference for. In contrast, we usually say someone has an inclination toward something. Predilection doesn’t necessarily need to be used with for. Sometimes it just stands alone, as in Among his many predilections was a fondness for tea in the evening.
What part of speech is the word predilection?
Predilection is a noun. It does not have verb or adjective forms. If you wanted to use a verb construction to express that someone has a predilection for something, you could say that they favor it, prefer it, or tend to do it or like it.
How do you use predilection in a sentence?
Predilection is a pretty formal word. It’s usually used in the context of liking things over others or tending to choose something or engage in a particular activity. Sometimes, it suggests a bias toward something. Here are some examples of predilection in a sentence:
  • When it comes to music, I don’t have a predilection—my taste is very eclectic.
  • The mayor has a predilection for appearing on TV. 
  • The entire interior design industry seems to have a predilection for minimalism.

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.

I worked with Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, who had a real predilection for civics education.

From Salon • Sep. 8, 2025

According to your predilection, this designation will seem either a contradiction in terms or a natural state of affairs …

From Slate • Jun. 6, 2025

Moderate Democrats in the area have been nicknamed “Valleycrats,” to signal their predilection for voting for the person they believe will do the best job for the district rather than sticking with any one party.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 24, 2024

Given his "predilection for undercooked pork", doctors surmised he contracted the tapeworm from his "eating habits".

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2024

He read greedily but understood selectively, choosing the bits and pieces of other men’s ideas that supported whatever predilection he had at the moment.

From "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison

Vocabulary lists containing predilection

The Crucible

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

To Kill a Mockingbird

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!