INCLINE Synonyms: 54 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'incline' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of incline are bias , dispose , and predispose . While all these words mean "to influence one to have or take an attitude toward something," incline implies a tendency to favor one of two or more actions or conclusions. // I incline to agree

Q: In what contexts can 'bias' take the place of 'incline'?

In some situations, the words bias and incline are roughly equivalent. However, bias suggests a settled and predictable leaning in one direction and connotes unfair prejudice. // the experience biased him against foreigners

Q: When could 'dispose' be used to replace 'incline'?

The words dispose and incline can be used in similar contexts, but dispose suggests an affecting of one's mood or temper so as to incline one toward something. // her nature disposes her to trust others

Q: When would 'predispose' be a good substitute for 'incline'?

The words predispose and incline are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, predispose implies the operation of a disposing influence well in advance of the opportunity to manifest itself. // does fictional violence predispose them to accept real violence?

incline 1 of 2

noun

ˈin-ˌklīn

Definition of incline next

as in slope

the degree to which something rises up from a position level with the horizon the steep incline of the hill meant that it was impossible to ride a bicycle up it

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

incline

2 of 2

verb

in-ˈklīn

as in to slope

to set or cause to be at an angle carefully inclined the ladder against the house

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to tend

to show a liking or proneness (for something) a good restaurant for diners who incline to spicy food

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word incline different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of incline are bias, dispose, and predispose. While all these words mean "to influence one to have or take an attitude toward something," incline implies a tendency to favor one of two or more actions or conclusions.

I incline to agree

In what contexts can bias take the place of incline?

In some situations, the words bias and incline are roughly equivalent. However, bias suggests a settled and predictable leaning in one direction and connotes unfair prejudice.

the experience biased him against foreigners

When could dispose be used to replace incline?

The words dispose and incline can be used in similar contexts, but dispose suggests an affecting of one's mood or temper so as to incline one toward something.

her nature disposes her to trust others

When would predispose be a good substitute for incline?

The words predispose and incline are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, predispose implies the operation of a disposing influence well in advance of the opportunity to manifest itself.

does fictional violence predispose them to accept real violence?

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of incline

Noun

Switching up the incline between 0 and 1 percent every half-mile, or throwing in a few quick one-minute faster surges every once in a while can help break up the monotony without amping up the intensity too much. —

Cindy Kuzma, SELF, 2 Dec. 2024 The hardest part of the trip was a mile away from the casino, where the trail hit a slow and steady incline and always gave him a good workout. —

Lizz Schumer, People.com, 24 Nov. 2024

Verb

The moon’s clash with Venus inclines you to wallow over lost or unrequited love. —

USA TODAY, 11 Dec. 2024 Global election results heralding a change in climate leadership, key players inclined to stall climate talks, and a disorganized host country all led to a final crunch that left few happy with a flawed compromise. —

Melinda Walling, The Christian Science Monitor, 24 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for incline

Recent Examples of Synonyms for incline

Noun

Bear in mind that many poppies bloom on roadside slopes outside the reserve.

Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2025
People are urged to avoid mountain slopes steeper than 30 degrees.

George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 2024