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Tendency Definition & Meaning

tendency
noun
  1. an attitude of mind especially one that favors one alternative over others; "he had an inclination to give up too easily"; "a tendency to be too strict"
  2. an inclination to do something; "he felt leanings toward frivolity"
  3. a characteristic likelihood of or natural disposition toward a certain condition or character or effect; "the alkaline inclination of the local waters"; "fabric with a tendency to shrink"
  4. a general direction in which something tends to move; "the shoreward tendency of the current"; "the trend of the stock market"

"Tendency" in song lyrics

See how tendency is used in real songs:

  • "Homicide is my tendency"
    BG Knocc Out & Dresta — Whose The 'G'
  • "I do have the tendency"
    DJ K.O. f/ K-Hill, Masta Ace, Phonte, Wordsworth — Ladder of Success
  • "I sometimes have a tendency"
    Lauryn Hill f/ D'Angelo — Nothing Even Matters

Usage tips for "tendency"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "tendency" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for tendency to find words that pair well.

Use "tendency" in a verse

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Frequently asked questions

What does tendency mean?
an attitude of mind especially one that favors one alternative over others; "he had an inclination to give up too easily"; "a tendency to be too strict" an inclination to do something; "he felt leanings toward frivolity" a characteristic likelihood of or natural disposition toward a certain condition or character or effect; "the alkaline inclination of the local waters"; "fabric with a tendency to shrink" a general direction in which something tends to move
What part of speech is tendency?
Tendency is a noun.
How many definitions does tendency have?
Tendency has 4 definitions across 1 part of speech (noun).

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