Predominantly vs. Dominantly — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 20, 2024
Predominantly refers to being the most common or prevalent, while dominantly emphasizes power or influence in a controlling manner.
Difference Between Predominantly and Dominantly
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Predominantly is used to describe something that occurs as the most common or widespread feature in a particular context, such as a color predominantly seen in a painting. On the other hand, dominantly is used when something is exerting power or influence, such as a team playing dominantly in a sports game.
In demographics, a group that is predominantly found in an area means it is the most numerous or common. Whereas, a group described as dominantly present implies they exert control or significant influence over that area.
In terms of traits or characteristics, if a feature is predominantly observed, it appears more frequently than others. Meanwhile, a dominantly inherited genetic trait suggests a strong likelihood of being passed from parent to offspring due to its powerful genetic influence.
In the analysis of data or trends, predominantly is used to indicate a major trend or pattern that stands out due to its frequency. Dominantly, however, would imply a force or factor that is leading or controlling the trends.
For behaviors, a person acting predominantly in a certain way means this behavior is most commonly observed in them. In contrast, acting dominantly would involve behaviors that assert control, authority, or dominance in situations.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Occurring as the most common or widespread.
Exerting influence or control in a powerful way.
Usage in context
Common in describing frequency or commonality.
Often relates to power dynamics or control.
Implications
Suggests majority or general prevalence.
Implies control, authority, or supremacy.
Example in genetics
A trait that is most commonly observed.
A trait that strongly manifests due to its genetic dominance.
Behavioral context
Describes the most usual or frequent behavior.
Describes behavior that aims to control or lead.
Compare with Definitions
Predominantly
Mainly or for the most part.
The audience was predominantly older adults.
Dominantly
In a controlling or powerful manner.
She argued her point dominantly throughout the debate.
Predominantly
Primarily observed or existing.
The region is predominantly forested.
Dominantly
Exerting authority or influence over others.
The company has remained dominantly successful in the market.
Predominantly
Largely composed of a particular quality.
The team is predominantly female.
Dominantly
Predominant in a forceful way.
This species is dominantly aggressive in its habitat.
Predominantly
Commonly occurring or prevalent.
Blue is the predominantly used color in his paintings.
Dominantly
Characterized by dominance.
His dominantly assertive personality makes him a formidable leader.
Predominantly
Mostly represented or featured.
His work is predominantly influenced by classical music.
Dominantly
Manifesting supremacy or dominance.
He plays dominantly, always aiming to win.
Predominantly
Having the most importance, influence, or force
The predominant theory in the field.
Dominantly
Exercising the most power, control, or influence
The dominant nations during the Cold War.
Predominantly
Most common or conspicuous; main or prevalent
"Egrets, gulls and small mammals are the predominant wildlife on the island these days" (Dan McCoubrey).
Dominantly
Most abundant or conspicuous; predominant
"[The fireplaces'] shallow brick arches are a relief from the dominant squares and verticals of the windows and doors" (Stephen A. Kliment).
Predominantly
In a predominant manner. Most commonly or frequently by a large margin.
The membership is predominantly elderly, 90% are over age 60.
Dominantly
Higher; overlooking
Dominant hills.
Predominantly
In a predominant manner.
Dominantly
Tending to be stronger than its counterpart or used for the most important tasks or in the most pressing situations
Which is your dominant eye? Throw the ball with your dominant arm.
Predominantly
Much greater in number or influence;
The patients are predominantly indigenous
Dominantly
(Genetics) Of, relating to, or being an allele that produces the same phenotypic effect in heterozygotes as in homozygotes.
Dominantly
(Ecology) Of, relating to, or being a species that is most characteristic of an ecological community and usually determines the presence, abundance, and type of other species.
Dominantly
(Music) Relating to or based on the fifth tone of a diatonic scale.
Dominantly
(Genetics) A dominant allele or a trait produced by a dominant allele.
Dominantly
(Ecology) A dominant species.
Dominantly
(Music) The fifth tone of a diatonic scale.
Dominantly
In a dominant manner.
Dominantly
In a dominant fashion;
Religion functions dominantly in many societies
Common Curiosities
Is a dominantly inherited trait always observable?
Yes, a dominantly inherited trait typically manifests clearly in the individual due to its strong genetic influence.
Can a culture be described as dominantly influencing a region?
Yes, if the culture strongly shapes the social norms and practices of the region.
What makes an environment predominantly hostile?
An environment is predominantly hostile if the majority of conditions are unfriendly or difficult.
How does dominantly differ from aggressively?
Dominantly involves control and influence, while aggressively often implies forcefulness or combativeness without the need for control.
What's the implication of a predominantly young population for a country?
It suggests potential for growth and innovation, but also challenges like ensuring adequate education and employment.
What does it mean for a species to be predominantly found in an area?
It means the species is the most common or widely observed in that area.
What's the difference between predominantly and mainly?
Predominantly and mainly are often used interchangeably to indicate the majority or the bulk of something.
What does predominantly blue mean in terms of painting?
It means that blue is the color most commonly used or visible in the painting.
How can an artist's style be both predominantly abstract and dominantly expressive?
The style is mainly abstract in form while strongly conveying emotions or ideas.
What are the effects of a dominantly positive attitude in the workplace?
It can lead to increased morale, better teamwork, and potentially higher productivity.
Can weather patterns be predominantly stable?
Yes, if stable conditions like clear skies or mild temperatures occur most of the time.
Can a government operate dominantly in a democratic society?
A government can operate dominantly if it wields substantial power or influence, though this may be at odds with democratic principles.
Why might a team be described as dominantly competitive?
A team is dominantly competitive if it consistently seeks to control the game and overpower its opponents.
What distinguishes a predominantly conservative society from a liberally minded one?
A predominantly conservative society adheres more to traditional values and norms, whereas a liberal society embraces change and diversity.
How does a predominantly agricultural area differ from an industrial one?
A predominantly agricultural area focuses mainly on farming and cultivation, whereas an industrial area is centered around manufacturing and production.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
