# tendency

/ˈtɛndənsi/ (US) · /tˈɛndənsi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tendency
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. a habit or trend

noun · CEFR B2

a habit of acting or thinking in a certain way, or a pattern that you see over time.

For teachers: an inclination toward a particular characteristic or type of behaviour. Often used with the preposition 'to' or 'towards'.

- She has a tendency to talk very fast when she is nervous.
- Economists have noted a growing tendency among younger consumers to prioritise sustainable sourcing over brand loyalty when making household purchases.

Usage: Commonly follows the pattern 'tendency to do something' or 'tendency towards something'.

### 2. political faction

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a group of people within a larger political party who share the same specific ideas.

For teachers: a distinct faction or organised subgroup within a larger political party or movement, often holding more radical or specific views than the main body.

- The radical tendency within the party disagreed with the new leadership.
- The moderate wing of the party struggled to reconcile its platform with the demands of the militant tendency that had gained influence in the northern branches.

Teaching tip: This sense is quite formal and specific to political history or theory; in everyday conversation, people usually use 'wing' or 'faction'.

## Examples

- He has a tendency to talk too much when he is nervous.
- Economists have noted a tendency for prices to rise during the summer months when demand is highest.
- The candidate's tendency to deviate from the party line on environmental issues has caused significant friction within the coalition's leadership.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.