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Proclivity vs Propensity

Proclivitynoun

a natural inclination

Full entry for Proclivity

Propensitynoun

a disposition to behave in a certain way

Full entry for Propensity

The difference

Very close in meaning — both are natural inclinations. Proclivity usually carries a hint of disapproval; propensity is neutral.

How to keep them apart

A propensity to daydream; a proclivity for trouble. When a test offers both, the surrounding tone decides.

Other pairs worth knowing

All confused pairs · SAT list · GRE list · Full word list