Lean: meaning, definitions and examples

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lean

[liːn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

to mean

To incline or bend from a vertical position; to be in a sloping position.

Synonyms

incline, slant, tilt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lean	Commonly used when someone or something is slightly angled in one direction. Often used to describe physical actions or postures. She had to lean to reach the top shelf. He leaned against the wall, looking tired.
tilt	Often used to describe the action of moving or leaning to a non-vertical or non-horizontal position. It can also imply a small, intentional movement. She tilted her head to listen more closely. The picture on the wall is slightly tilted.
slant	Typically used to describe something that is not horizontal or vertical, but at an angle. Can also imply a particular perspective or bias. The roof has a steep slant to allow snow to slide off. The article had a clear political slant.
incline	Often used to describe the action of tilting or bending forwards or down. Can also refer to a preference or tendency towards something. The path inclines gently down the hillside. I'm inclined to agree with you on this matter.

Examples of usage

The tower leans to one side.
She leaned against the wall for support.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to trust

To trust or rely on someone or something for support or help.

Synonyms

count on, depend on, rely on.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lean	Used when you need physical support, like leaning on a wall. It can also suggest a slight dependency, usually temporary. He leaned against the wall to catch his breath In tough times, she leans on her friends for support
rely on	Similar to 'depend on' but often used in a broader or less intensive context. It indicates trust and confidence. We rely on technology for many daily tasks I rely on my car to get to work every day
depend on	Used for situations of significant reliance, where there is a strong need for support. It can sometimes imply vulnerability. Children depend on their parents for care and protection Our success depends on everyone's hard work
count on	Used to describe trust in someone's reliability or abilities, often in specific situations or tasks. I am counting on you to finish this project on time You can count on her to help you with your homework

Examples of usage

She leans on her friends for emotional support.
He leaned on his experience to guide him through the challenge.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

inclination

A tendency or preference towards a particular thing or action.

Synonyms

inclination, preference, tendency.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lean	When you want to describe someone or something that has a thin and slender physique or when something is in a position not upright. She has a lean build from years of swimming The tower began to lean after the earthquake
inclination	When talking about a natural or habitual tendency towards a particular action or attitude, often used in formal writing. He has an inclination to stay late at work Her inclination for artistic pursuits was evident from a young age
preference	When referring to a greater liking for one alternative over another, commonly used in everyday conversations. I have a preference for tea over coffee His preference was to stay home rather than go out
tendency	When describing a general or recurring inclination to act or move in a certain way, often highlighting a predictable pattern of behavior. There is a tendency for prices to increase during the holiday season She has a tendency to forget her keys

Examples of usage

She has a lean towards vegetarianism.
His lean towards adventure led him to travel the world.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Old English 'hlēonian,' which meant to bend or incline.
In Middle English, it transformed to 'lenen,' which meant to support or lean against something.

Fitness and Health

In fitness, a 'lean' body is often seen as desirable because it suggests muscle without excess fat.
Many diet plans encourage 'lean' foods, which are lower in fat and calories but rich in nutrients.

Business

The 'lean' methodology in business focuses on maximizing value while minimizing waste, particularly in manufacturing.
Companies following a 'lean' approach often improve efficiency and reduce costs through continuous improvement.

Culinary

'Lean' meats refer to cuts with less fat, like chicken breast or turkey, making them healthier options.
Cooking 'lean' often involves methods like grilling or baking instead of frying to keep dishes healthier.

Psychology

In psychological theories, 'leaning' towards something can indicate preference or inclination, showing how attitudes shape behaviors.
The concept of 'leaning in' has been popularized as a call for individuals, especially women, to assertively pursue opportunities.

Translations

Translations of the word "lean" in other languages:

🇵🇹 magro

inclinar-se
esbelto

🇮🇳 पतला

🇩🇪 mager

🇮🇩 kurus

🇺🇦 худий

🇵🇱 chudy

🇯🇵 痩せた

🇫🇷 maigre

🇪🇸 delgado

🇹🇷 zayıf

🇰🇷 마른

🇸🇦 نحيف

🇨🇿 hubený

🇸🇰 chudý

🇨🇳 瘦的

🇸🇮 suh

🇮🇸 grannur

🇰🇿 арық

🇬🇪 გამხდარი

🇦🇿 arıq

🇲🇽 delgado

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,134 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
6131 bull
6132 lion
6133 struggling
6134 lean
6135 questionnaire
6136 inequality
6137 merger
...