# leans

/ˈɫinz/ (US) · /lˈiːnz/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/leans
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

to move your body so it is not straight, or to rest against something for support. You also use it to say you prefer one idea or opinion over another.

For teachers: to incline the body or an object from a vertical position; to rely on a surface for physical support. In an abstract sense, it indicates a tendency or preference toward a particular opinion or action.

## Examples

- He leans against the wall while waiting for the bus.
- The tower leans slightly to the left because the ground underneath it is too soft.
- While the committee remains officially neutral, the chairman leans toward the more conservative proposal due to the significant budget constraints facing the department this fiscal year.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He leans to the wall" but "He leans against the wall" — When using an object for physical support, 'against' is the correct preposition; 'to' or 'toward' implies direction without contact.

## Usage notes

- Often takes the prepositions 'against' for physical support or 'toward' for preferences.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.