propensity

/pɹəˈpɛnsɪti/

Group 22Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(noun)
An inclination or natural tendency to behave in a particular way
GRE

Example in Context

The researcher studied the human propensity for confirmation bias and its effects on political decision-making.

Synonyms

tendencyinclinationleaning

Etymology

A natural leaning or tendency towards certain behaviors.

  • propensus (Latin) — leaning or inclination

Memory Aid

🏙️Sounds like “pro pen city

In a PRO PEN CITY, everyone has a natural PROPENSITY to write crazy stories!

Visual Association

🧠A brain tilting to one side, filled with colorful arrows pointing towards various behaviors.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “propensity” mean on the GRE?

propensity (noun) means “An inclination or natural tendency to behave in a particular way”. The researcher studied the human propensity for confirmation bias and its effects on political decision-making.

How to remember “propensity” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “propensity” sounds like “pro pen city”. In a PRO PEN CITY, everyone has a natural PROPENSITY to write crazy stories!

What are synonyms for “propensity”?

Common synonyms: tendency, inclination, leaning.