Prone
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Likely to experience or suffer from something, especially something negative.
- Lying face downward or having a tendency to be in a particular position.
- Having a natural inclination or predisposition toward a particular condition or behavior.
History and Origin
The word “prone” comes from the Latin pronus, meaning “bent forward” or “inclined.” It entered English in the 15th century, initially referring to a physical position and later expanded to describe tendencies or predispositions. Over time, it evolved to express a broader sense of likelihood or inclination toward specific actions or outcomes.
Detailed Explanation
“Prone” is often used to describe an inclination or likelihood of something happening, usually in a negative context. For example, being “prone to illness” suggests a higher likelihood of falling sick. It can also describe physical positioning, as in lying face down, or an attitude that is inclined toward a particular habit or behavior. The term is commonly used in medical, psychological, and general contexts to express susceptibility or tendencies.
Example Sentences
- She is prone to headaches during stressful situations.
- The region is prone to flooding during heavy rainfall.
- He is prone to making impulsive decisions when under pressure.
- The dog is prone to allergies in the spring.
- Many athletes are prone to injuries due to the physical demands of their sport.
- He’s prone to forgetfulness when he’s busy with work.
- The child is prone to anxiety in unfamiliar environments.
- The team’s poor performance was due to their prone attitude toward laziness.
- People living in coastal areas are often prone to hurricane damage.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Susceptible – Likely to be affected by something, often negatively.
- Inclined – Having a tendency or preference toward something.
- Vulnerable – Open to harm or damage due to weakness or susceptibility.
- Liable – Likely to experience something, especially an unfavorable outcome.
- Practical – Having a tendency or likelihood to be engaged in or connected with practical matters.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Tendency – A general inclination or movement toward a particular direction.
- Predisposed – Having a natural inclination or susceptibility toward something.
- At risk – Exposed to the possibility of harm or danger.
- Sensitive – Easily affected by external factors or prone to reactions.
- Fragile – Likely to break or be harmed easily due to vulnerability.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Exposed – Open to danger or harm, prone to being affected.
- Risky – Involving a high probability of an undesirable outcome.
- Defenseless – Without protection, making one prone to harm or danger.
- Weak – Lacking strength or resistance, making one more prone to negative influences.
- Fragility – The quality of being easily damaged or susceptible to harm.
Antonyms
- Resistant
- Immune
- Invulnerable
- Strong
- Secure