partiality

[ pahr-shee-al-i-tee, pahr-shal- ]

noun

, plural par·ti·al·i·ties.

1. the state or character of being partial.
2. a favorable bias or prejudice:

   the partiality of parents for their own children.

   Synonyms: favoritism

3. a special fondness, preference, or liking (usually followed by to or for ):

   a partiality for country living.

   Synonyms: predilection, bent, inclination, leaning

   Antonyms: dislike

partiality

/ ˌpɑːʃɪˈælɪtɪ /

noun

1. favourable prejudice or bias
2. usually foll by for liking or fondness
3. the state or condition of being partial

Other Words From

• nonpar·ti·ali·ty noun plural nonpartialities
• over·parti·ali·ty noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of partiality¹

1375–1425; late Middle English parcialite < Medieval Latin partiālitās. See partial, -ity

Example Sentences

He heavily favored his own tribe, the Popalzai, to the detriment of other clans who bitterly resented his partiality.

From The Daily Beast

Romantic involvement with a news source would create the appearance and probably the reality of partiality.

From The Daily Beast

The partiality this worthy Grecian always manifested for smoking is well known.

From Project Gutenberg

This may have been maternal partiality, for whilst a mere child, she was somewhat obstinate in disposition, and averse to study.

From Project Gutenberg

Scattergood was partial to old ladies, and this partiality can be traced to his earliest days in Coldriver.

From Project Gutenberg

It was very tractable and gentle in its temper, and never took advantage of the partiality shown to it.

From Project Gutenberg

The great reason for this was the want of punctuality in the payment of rates and taxes, and the partiality shown by collectors.

From Project Gutenberg