What is inclined? Pronunciation and usage in English

inclined means . Learn how to pronounce and use inclined through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of inclined

inclinedadjective

/ɪnˈklaɪnd//ɪnˈklaɪnd/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "inclined." It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with phonetic approximations and tips:

Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/ɪnˈlaɪnd/

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • in: Pronounced like the word "in" – a short, quick "ih" sound (as in "it"). IPA: /ɪn/
  • ˈlaɪnd: This is the tricky part!
    • la: Pronounced like "lah" – a clear "ah" sound. IPA: /lɑ/
    • -y: This is a gliding sound. It's like you're moving your tongue from the "lah" sound towards the "ind" sound. It's a little bit like a very quick "i" sound, but it’s blended with the 'a'. It's almost like saying "lay" very quickly. IPA: /ɪ/
    • nd: Pronounced simply as "nd" - as in "hand" or "send". IPA: /nd/

Putting it all together:

It sounds roughly like: in-LAYND (emphasize the second syllable)

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("LAYND"). This is what makes the word sound right.
  • The "-y" sound: This is the key. Don't just say "land." That glide is crucial to getting the sound right. Think of it as a brief "i" sound blending with the "a".
  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it spoken. Here are some good resources:
    • Google Translate: Type "inclined" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/inclined/ - This website has pronunciations from native speakers.
    • YouTube: Search for “how to pronounce inclined” on YouTube.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a slightly different example sentence using "inclined" so you can hear it in context?

Usage and examples with the word inclined in English

Let's break down how to use the word "inclined" in English. It's a versatile word with multiple meanings, so understanding the context is key. Here's a breakdown of its common uses:

1. Willing or Ready (Most Common)

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent use. It means you are willing, eager, or ready to do something. It suggests a positive predisposition.
  • Examples:
    • "I’m inclined to agree with you." (I’m willing to agree)
    • "She was inclined to help him with the project." (She was willing to help)
    • "He seemed inclined to drop the charges." (He seemed willing to drop the charges)
    • "I’m inclined to think it’s a good idea." (I’m leaning towards thinking it's a good idea)

2. Leaning or Tilted (Physical)

  • Meaning: This refers to a physical angle or slope.
  • Examples:
    • "The road was inclined upwards." (The road had a slope upwards)
    • "The airplane’s wings are inclined for better lift." (The wings are angled)
    • "He sat inclined against the wall." (He was leaning against the wall)

3. Leaning Towards (A Belief or Opinion)

  • Meaning: Similar to the first meaning, but suggests a tendency or a feeling that something is likely to be the case. It's a subtle leaning.
  • Examples:
    • "He was inclined to believe the rumors." (He was leaning towards believing the rumors)
    • "They are inclined to find fault." (They're tending to look for criticisms)

4. Psychologically Predisposed (Often Used in a More Formal Way)

  • Meaning: Having a natural tendency or inclination toward a particular behavior or thought. This is a more clinical or psychological usage.
  • Examples:
    • "Children are inclined to explore." (Children have a natural tendency to explore.)
    • "Patients with this condition are inclined to experience anxiety." (Patients have a tendency to experience anxiety.)

5. (Informal) – A Bit Hesitant or Reluctant (This is a less common usage)

  • Meaning: Can sometimes imply a slight reluctance or hesitation, but it's less strong than "hesitant." It's often used with "to."
  • Example: "I’m not really inclined to go out tonight." (I’m not really in the mood to go out tonight – suggesting a slight reluctance)

Key Phrases & Word Combinations:

  • Inclined to + Verb: (Very common) - "He is inclined to laugh." "She is inclined to agree."
  • Inclined by: - “She was inclined by his charm.” (Meaning she was persuaded or influenced by his charm)
  • Inclined against: - "He was inclined against the proposal." (Meaning he was leaning against it).

How to Choose the Right Meaning:

  1. Context is Crucial: Always read the sentence and surrounding text to understand what the author is trying to convey.
  2. Think about the Action: Is the person willing to do something? Is something physically leaning? Or are they leaning towards a particular idea?
  3. Listen to the Tone: Is the tone formal or informal? The use of “inclined” can sometimes shift slightly depending on the overall tone.

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of sentences are you trying to use "inclined" in? (e.g., describing someone's personality, describing a physical situation, etc.)

Synonyms for the word inclined

Practice with vocabulary inclined

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. She is generally __________ to help others without being asked, often volunteering for extra tasks.
  2. The committee seemed __________ to approve the innovative proposal, despite some initial reservations.
  3. The ancient tower has a noticeable __________ to the west, posing significant structural challenges.
  4. He showed a strong __________ for mathematics from an early age, consistently excelling in every class.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which words describe someone who is willing to consider a new idea or proposal? a) Inclined b) Hesitant c) Receptive d) Reluctant e) Averse

  2. The board members were __________ to consider the merger, but only if the financial terms were significantly revised. a) reluctant b) inclined c) averse d) opposed e) agreeable

  3. The architect designed a roof __________ at a sharp angle to facilitate optimal water drainage in heavy rain. a) level b) inclined c) horizontal d) sloped e) flat

  4. Her natural __________ for leadership became evident early in her career, as she consistently took initiative. a) aversion b) aptitude c) reluctance d) disinterest e) penchant

  5. When presenting data, it's crucial to avoid language that shows a clear __________ towards one conclusion over another, to maintain objectivity. a) objectivity b) bias c) impartiality d) preference e) neutrality

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He generally prefers to work independently on complex tasks.

    • Rewrite the sentence starting with: "He is generally..."

  2. The survey results indicated a strong tendency among consumers to prioritize sustainability.

    • Rewrite the sentence starting with: "The survey results indicated a strong..."

  3. The board members are leaning towards a cautious approach in the current economic climate.

    • Rewrite the sentence starting with: "The board members are..." (Do not use "inclined" or any form of it).

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. She is generally inclined to help others without being asked, often volunteering for extra tasks.
  2. The committee seemed inclined to approve the innovative proposal, despite some initial reservations.
  3. The ancient tower has a noticeable tilt (or lean) to the west, posing significant structural challenges.
  4. He showed a strong aptitude (or talent) for mathematics from an early age, consistently excelling in every class.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Inclined, c) Receptive
  2. b) inclined, e) agreeable
  3. b) inclined, d) sloped
  4. b) aptitude, e) penchant
  5. b) bias, d) preference

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. He is generally inclined to work independently on complex tasks.
  2. The survey results indicated a strong inclination among consumers towards prioritizing sustainability.
  3. The board members are disposed to adopt a cautious approach in the current economic climate.

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