How Do You Spell LEAN TOWARD?

Pronunciation: [lˈiːn tʊwˈɔːd] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrasal verb "lean toward" can be a bit tricky due to the pronunciation of the word "toward." In IPA phonetic transcription, "toward" is pronounced as /təˈwɔrd/, with the stress on the first syllable, and the "w" sound in the middle. Therefore, the correct spelling is "lean toward" and not "lean towards," which is a common mistake. This phrasal verb means to have a slight inclination or preference towards something, and is often used in discussions or decisions.

LEAN TOWARD Meaning and Definition

  1. The expression "lean toward" is a phrasal verb with multiple uses and meanings. In its most general sense, it refers to the act of inclining or bending towards a particular direction, idea, or opinion. It signifies a slight preference, inclination, or tendency towards a specific option or choice.

    Additionally, "lean toward" can also indicate an individual’s physical movement or position. It implies leaning or tilting one's body weight towards a specific side or direction. This physical act may signify a temporary gesture or a deliberate action to provide support, stability, or direct attention to something or someone.

    Furthermore, "lean toward" can be used metaphorically to describe a mental or emotional inclination. It reflects a person's leaning or inclination towards a particular belief, emotion, or perspective, often used when discussing decisions, opinions, or attitudes.

    In summary, "lean toward" denotes a slight inclination, preference, or physical movement towards a specific option, direction, belief, or choice. It can refer to both physical and metaphorical inclinations, emphasizing a person's tendency or leaning towards a certain idea, opinion, or action. Overall, the phrase emphasizes a subtle preference or inclination rather than a definite commitment or decision.

Common Misspellings for LEAN TOWARD

  • kean toward
  • pean toward
  • oean toward
  • lwan toward
  • lsan toward
  • ldan toward
  • lran toward
  • l4an toward
  • l3an toward
  • lezn toward
  • lesn toward
  • lewn toward
  • leqn toward
  • leab toward
  • leam toward
  • leaj toward
  • leah toward
  • lean roward
  • lean foward
  • lean goward

Etymology of LEAN TOWARD

The phrase "lean toward" consists of two words: "lean" and "toward".

1. "Lean":

The word "lean" originates from the Old English word "hlēonian", which means "to incline, bend, or recline". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*hlineną". The term has remained relatively unchanged throughout its history.

2. "Toward":

The word "toward" originates from the Old English word "tōweard", which means "in the direction of, near to, or closer". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*ata-warts" (meaning "atward") and is composed of "at" (meaning "to") and "-warts" (meaning "turned or directed"). Over time, "tōweard" transformed into "toward" through phonetic changes common in Old English.

Idioms with the word LEAN TOWARD

  • lean toward sm or sth The idiom "lean toward sm or sth" means to have a slight preference or inclination towards someone or something. It suggests that one is more inclined to choose or support a particular option, but is not completely committed or decided.
  • lean toward doing sth The idiom "lean toward doing something" means to have a slight preference or inclination towards a particular course of action. It implies that one is more inclined to do something rather than the alternatives.
  • lean toward someone or something The idiom "lean toward someone or something" refers to showing a preference or inclination towards a certain person or thing. It implies favoring or being more inclined to support or agree with someone or something.
  • lean toward doing The idiom "lean toward doing" means to have a tendency or inclination towards a particular action or decision. It implies a slight preference or inclination towards a specific choice or option.
  • lean toward doing something The idiom "lean toward doing something" means to have a slight inclination or preference for a particular choice or course of action. It suggests being more inclined or likely to choose or do something, while not necessarily being fully committed or decided yet.
  • lean toward To have a slight preference or inclination towards a particular option or decision.