predisposition
pree-dis-puh-ZIH-shun
/ˌpriːdɪspəˈzɪʃən/
A liability or tendency to suffer from a particular condition, hold a particular attitude, or act in a particular way.
In health, it usually refers to a genetic tendency that makes someone more likely to develop a disease if triggered by the environment.
The story behind the word. 'Predisposition' comes from the Latin 'prae' (before) and 'disponere' (to arrange). It literally means 'arranged beforehand.' It suggests that the 'deck is stacked' in a certain way before you even start.
Word relationships
- susceptibility: The state of being easily affected by something, often more immediate than a predisposition.
- propensity: A natural tendency to behave in a certain way.
- resistance: The ability not to be affected by something.
- immunity: Protection from a specific condition.
Commonly confused with
- disposition: Disposition is your general mood or character; predisposition is a specific tendency toward a condition.
Word family
- predispose (verb): To make someone liable or inclined to a specified attitude, action, or condition.
Collocations
- genetic predisposition
- biological predisposition
- predisposition to disease
- hereditary predisposition
Example sentences
- "A genetic predisposition to obesity does not guarantee the condition will develop." Genetics lecture.
- "Some individuals have a biological predisposition toward addictive behaviors." Psychological profile.
Memory hook
'Pre' (Before) + 'Disposition' (Position) = Positioned before you even start. Predisposition: Born with a tendency.
When not to use
It doesn't mean you will get the condition, only that you are more likely to.
Fun facts
- Research into 'epigenetics' shows that while you may have a predisposition, your lifestyle can sometimes 'turn off' those genes.
Related words
Explore more words
susceptibility, bias, predestined, conducive, optimism, innate
Also appears in
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