Nuance & Usage
傾向 describes a general direction or pattern in behavior, data, or situations. It is commonly used in both everyday conversation and formal analysis. 〜傾向がある (keikou ga aru) means 'there is a tendency to ~.' 傾向と対策 (keikou to taisaku) is a well-known phrase meaning 'trends and countermeasures,' often used in exam preparation. Unlike 癖 (kuse — habit/quirk), 傾向 is more neutral and analytical.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 傾向 with 習慣 (shuukan — habit). 傾向 describes a general pattern or trend, while 習慣 refers to a personal routine or custom. Also, 傾向 is always a noun — you cannot use it as an adjective directly. Say 〜の傾向がある, not 傾向な.
Example Sentences (3)
最近、若者の読書離れの傾向が強まっている。
さいきん、わかもののどくしょばなれのけいこうがつよまっている。
Recently, the tendency of young people moving away from reading has been growing stronger.
このデータには明らかな傾向が見られる。
このでーたにはあきらかなけいこうがみられる。
A clear trend can be seen in this data.
彼は何でも一人でやろうとする傾向がある。
かれはなんでもひとりでやろうとするけいこうがある。
He has a tendency to try to do everything by himself.
Quick Quiz
Quick Quiz
N24 questionsTest your knowledge of 傾向 with 4 different question types.
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