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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.

Questioned in February about Sir Wicknell's predilection for giving away cars, President Mnangagwa dismissed an accusation that the businessman was acting as his frontman.

From BBC • Jun. 21, 2025

She received a torrent of criticism for her budget-cutting predilection, in the form of combative interviews from press that she was seemingly powerless to repel.

From Slate • Jan. 17, 2025

More people are familiar with the second movie than the first these days, which also says something about our predilection for the visceral in life and on TV.

From Salon • Oct. 4, 2024

Kathryn Newton stars as Lisa, an odd outcast with a slasher-movie-ready tragic backstory and a predilection for hanging out in the cemetery, leaving trinkets at the grave of a handsome young dead guy.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 7, 2024

Fluffy, black and long-snouted, this burrowing creature has a predilection for anything glittery.

From "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" by J.K. Rowling

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.