inclination crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving the "inclination crossword clue"! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, carefully categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution. Let's get that puzzle solved!
Solutions for "inclination crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BENT: A natural talent or tendency.
5 Letters
SLOPE: An angled surface or degree of steepness; a natural disposition.
6 Letters
DESIRE: A strong feeling of wanting something or wishing for something to happen; an inclination towards.
8 Letters
TENDENCY: An inclination toward a particular characteristic or type of behavior.
10 Letters
PROPENSITY: An inclination or natural tendency to behave in a particular way.
More About "inclination crossword clue"
The term "inclination" is a versatile one in the English language, making it a popular choice for crossword setters. It can refer to a physical tilt or angle, such as the inclination of a roof or a planet's orbit. However, more often in crosswords, it points to a disposition, a natural aptitude, a preference, or even a strong desire.
When encountering this clue, it's crucial to consider the context provided by other intersecting words. Is the puzzle leaning towards a physical, mathematical, or psychological theme? For instance, an "inclination" that's 5 letters long in a puzzle about geography might suggest SLOPE, while the same clue in a puzzle about human traits could point to BENT or DESIRE. This ambiguity is precisely what makes "inclination" such an engaging crossword clue.
Understanding the nuances of its synonyms is key to mastering this clue. Synonyms like PROPENSITY and PREDISPOSITION emphasize a natural or inherent tendency, while words like DESIRE or LIKING highlight a strong personal preference. By mentally cycling through these different facets of "inclination," you significantly increase your chances of finding the exact word the setter had in mind.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters required for the answer. "Inclination" can be a four-letter word like BENT or a ten-letter word like PROPENSITY; getting the length right is often the first step.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters from solved intersecting words are your best friends. They can quickly eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the right one, especially for ambiguous clues like "inclination."
- Consider Nuance and Context: Think about the broader theme of the puzzle. Is it a general knowledge puzzle, or does it have a specific subject like physics, psychology, or a specific hobby? This context can hint at whether "inclination" refers to a physical angle or a personal leaning.
- Think of Homonyms/Homographs: While less common for "inclination," always be aware that setters might play on words with multiple meanings or spellings. However, for this clue, it's usually about its varied synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'inclination' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'inclination' can refer to a natural tendency, a slope, a leaning, a preference, or even a desire. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How can I distinguish between 'inclination' clues for 'slope' vs. 'tendency'?
Consider the word length and surrounding clues. If it's a short answer (e.g., 4-5 letters) and the puzzle has a physical theme, 'slope' or 'angle' might fit. If it's longer (e.g., 8-10 letters) and relates to behavior or preference, 'tendency' or 'propensity' is more likely.
Are there common synonyms for 'inclination' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include BENT, BIAS, LEAN, SLOPE, ANGLE, PITCH, TILT, TENDENCY, PROPENSITY, PREDISPOSITION, LIKING, DESIRE, APTITUDE, and PROCLIVITY. The context is key!