趋势

Tendency \Tend"en*cy\, n.; pl. {Tendencies}. [L. tendents,
-entis, p. pr. of tendere: cf. F. tendance. See {Tend} to
move.]
Direction or course toward any place, object, effect, or
result; drift; causal or efficient influence to bring about
an effect or result.

Writings of this kind, if conducted with candor, have a
more particular tendency to the good of their country.
--Addison.

In every experimental science, there is a tendency
toward perfection. --Macaulay.

Syn: Disposition; inclination; proneness; drift; scope; aim.