tend (A2)

verb

Pronunciation: /tɛnd/

Definition

To be likely to happen or to have a particular characteristic or effect.

Examples

• The roads tend to be icy in winter.

• He tends to be quiet in large groups.

• This type of fabric tends to shrink when washed.

How to Use tend

tend to do something (prepositional phrase)

To be likely to do something. — "He tends to forget his keys."

tend to something (prepositional phrase)

To care for or look after something. — "She tends to her houseplants daily."

Synonyms of tend

Words with a similar meaning to tend:

• lean
• be inclined
• show a tendency
• be prone

Antonyms of tend

Words with the opposite meaning to tend:

• avoid
• deviate

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