The phrase "hadst an inclination" is an archaic form of "you had an inclination". In IPA phonetic transcription, "hadst" is pronounced as "hædst", with the "a" sound being a short "a" as in "hat", and the "d" and "st" sounds being merged almost into one consonant cluster. "Inclination" is pronounced as /ɪnklɪˈneɪʃən/, with the stress on the second syllable and the "c" in "clination" being pronounced as a "k" sound. This spelling is reflective of the Old English roots of the phrase.
Hadst an inclination is an archaic phrase used in older forms of English to convey the expression of having a desire or a leaning towards a particular action or preference. It is derived from the Old English verb "have" and the past tense form of the verb "to incline."
The word "hadst" signifies the second-person singular past tense of the verb "to have," indicating that the speaker or subject possessed or experienced something in the past. "An inclination" refers to a tendency or preference towards a specific course of action or thought.
When used together, "hadst an inclination" implies that the individual had a specific desire, propensity, or leaning towards a certain activity, opinion, or decision, typically in the past or within a historical context where such language was commonly employed.
This phrase is often associated with situations where someone expresses their personal preference or willingness to engage in a particular behavior or take a certain stance. It suggests that the individual possessed a natural or inherent tendency towards a specific course of action, usually based on personal inclination or preference.
Overall, "hadst an inclination" captures the historical language and societal conventions of the past, conveying a sense of personal desire or predisposition towards a particular choice or opinion.