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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.

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

"The studies let us know what our genetic predilection for IQ is," they told an undercover reporter in 2023.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 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

Oppenheimer, in his predilection for action, had foolishly overlooked Lawrence’s mind-set.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik

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