Language Research

lean · verb I or T

/liːn/Full view

lean (sth) back/forward/out, etc.

B2 to move the top part of your body in a particular direction

Dictionary examples:

She leaned forward and whispered in my ear.

He was leaning out of the window.

Lean your head back a bit.

Learner example:

As I was leaning on the glass of the window, it splintered into pieces. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

lean (sth) against/on sth

B2 to rest against something for support, or to move something into this position

Dictionary examples:

She leaned her bike against the wall.

He was leaning on the fence.

Learner example:

She turned around and saw this boy leaning against the wall. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

lean

C2 to be in a position that is not straight or vertical

Dictionary example:

That fence is leaning to the right.

Learner example:

The water they had on the ship poured out as the ship leaned on one side. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Russian)

lean on sb (DEPEND ON)

C2 to depend on someone or something

Dictionary example:

They had leaned on the dictionary as the authority that answered all their questions.

Learner example:

I would like to be the person my child can always lean on: I'd like to be able to express my feelings and make him express his. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Italian)

lean on sb (CONVINCE)

C2 to try to convince or force someone do what you want

Dictionary example:

The other members will probably lean on her to get her to stay.

Learner example:

Piggy is the most intelligent boy of the group, but he doesn't have the streng[th] to apply his ideas to the situation they are living [in], that is why he leans on Ralph (the perfect leader-type, as he sees him). (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)