a leaning toward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a leaning toward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a preference or inclination towards a particular idea, opinion, or action. Example: "She has a leaning toward more sustainable practices in her business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

A leaning toward procrastination.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Berkshire stayed on the sidelines, though privately Mr. Buffett expressed a leaning toward InBev's offer.

The New York Times

At bottom, most people would be for it, or at least profess a leaning toward it.

The New York Times - Sports

There was a leaning toward "quiddity," he said, toward the "itness" of material.

The New York Times - Arts

Or did the gilded glitter of embroidered leaves and the modern attitude suggest a leaning toward the Five-Star Movement of the comedian Beppe Grillo, who is tipped to have a good showing in the parliamentary voting Sunday and Monday?

The New York Times

This is Putin's response to Ukraine's attempt to build a new nationhood that combines a leaning toward the Western world with the nationalism of Ukraine's own west; both wests are regarded by Putin as utterly hostile to Russian interests.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

A German critic, Hubertus Butin, has termed Richter "a professed atheist with a strong leaning toward Catholicism" — a characterization that the artist condoned with a sly smile, when I saw him in Cologne.

The New Yorker

This indie comic, with its sensible linework and straightforward adventure, is a breath of fresh air in a climate leaning toward abstraction.

Vice

It has a tribrachial structure that consists of a lean premixed segment leaning toward the oxidizer side, a rich premixed segment leaning toward the fuel side, and a diffusion flame trailing behind.

Combustion and Flame

Dwayne F. Davidson, a 41-year-old G.M. manager of computer-aided design, is a Republican leaning toward Governor Bush, trusting him to keep government small.

The New York Times

Golden Tate remains a mystery leaning toward the "underachieving" side.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a leaning toward", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is inclined towards. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the overall clarity of your sentence.

Common error

Avoid overstating the inclination. "A leaning toward" suggests a mild preference, not a firm commitment. Use stronger phrases like "a strong preference for" if the inclination is significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a leaning toward" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun or verb. It describes a tendency, inclination, or preference in a particular direction. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in expressing preferences or tendencies.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a leaning toward" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to express a preference or inclination. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, and scientific writing. While it suggests a tendency, it does not imply a strong commitment, making it suitable for scenarios where a mild preference needs to be conveyed. Alternatives such as "an inclination towards" or "a tendency to favor" can be used to add subtle nuances. Understanding these elements helps to effectively use "a leaning toward" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inclination towards

Focuses on the direction of preference, slightly more formal.

a tendency to favor

Highlights the habitual preference, emphasizing repeated action.

a propensity for

Indicates a natural inclination or predisposition.

a predilection for

Suggests a strong liking or preference, often more personal.

a bias towards

Implies a prejudice or unfair preference.

a partiality to

Denotes a fondness or favoritism.

an affinity for

Indicates a natural liking or connection.

a disposition to

Refers to an inherent quality or tendency.

a proclivity for

Highlights a natural or habitual inclination, often negative.

a bent for

Suggests a natural talent or inclination.

FAQs

How can I use "a leaning toward" in a sentence?

Use "a leaning toward" to indicate a preference or inclination. For example, "The company has "a leaning toward" sustainable practices."

What are some alternatives to "a leaning toward"?

You can use alternatives such as "an inclination towards", "a tendency to favor", or "a propensity for" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it formal or informal to use "a leaning toward"?

The phrase "a leaning toward" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in more formal settings, consider using "an inclination towards" for a slightly more elevated tone.

What's the difference between "a leaning toward" and "a strong preference for"?

"A leaning toward" indicates a mild inclination or preference, while "a strong preference for" suggests a more definite and decided preference. The choice depends on the degree of inclination you want to express.