lean backward

USAGE SUMMARY

"lean backward" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe the action of someone or yourself leaning backward. For example: "I leaned backward to get a better view of the stage".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Both lean backward and try to stop as the big door comes closer and closer.

The New Yorker

The cat and the mouse lean backward and try to stop on the slippery wax, which shows their flawless reflections.

The New Yorker

— named Alina Kabaeva, a woman so flexible she can lean backward and dribble a soccer ball with her head.

The New Yorker

And while, aside from the cinematic items, the museum's center of gravity seems to rest in the 1970's, causing it to lean backward rather than forward, the collection also provides a glimpse of science fiction's enduring appeal.

The New York Times

After he threw in the bullpen last Friday, in the first workout of spring training, the pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre noticed something immediately and suggested that Watson keep his torso upright when he begins his delivery, rather than lean backward; Watson felt a difference almost immediately.

The New York Times - Sports

It works kind of like a Segway, in that you lean forward to move and lean backward to slow down, and steer with your body weight.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Then I leaned backward to try the prescribed heel turn.

The New York Times

At his news conference, Few leaned backward, his tie loosened, his face glum.

The New York Times - Sports

She smiled, pumped her fist, leaned backward, waved and signed autographs, the celebration long and lasting.

The New York Times - Sports

The realist leans backward rather than forward; his watchword is prudence.

The New York Times - Books

He leaned backward in his chair and scrunched his forehead as if someone had replaced his Gatorade with swamp water.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical actions, use "lean backward" to depict a controlled shift of body weight or posture. For instance, "She had to "lean backward" to avoid being hit by the swinging door."

Common error

While it's grammatically correct to modify "lean backward" with adverbs, avoid overusing them. Instead of saying "lean sharply backward", try to describe the resulting action or purpose for a more vivid picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lean backward" primarily functions as a verb phrase describing a physical action. It depicts the act of inclining the body in a rearward direction. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of the expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lean backward" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the action of inclining the body towards the rear. Ludwig AI affirms its validity. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Wiki sources and has a neutral tone making it suitable for a variety of contexts. While not exceptionally frequent, its meaning is clear and well-understood. When using this phrase, consider the subtle differences between it and alternatives like "bend backward" or "incline backward" for the most precise depiction of the action. A great tip is to focus on why the subject is "leaning backward" and build the sentence from there!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bend backward

Emphasizes the bending action more strongly than a simple lean.

incline backward

Implies a more gradual and controlled movement.

tilt backward

Focuses on the angle of the body shifting backwards.

recline

Suggests a more relaxed or supported backward lean.

arch back

Emphasizes the curvature created in the back while leaning.

draw back

Indicates a movement of pulling away or receding backwards.

fall back

Suggests an uncontrolled or sudden backward movement.

slope backward

Describes a gradual descent or slant in a backward direction.

bend over backwards

This idiom describes an extreme effort and is a more figurative interpretation

move backward

Describes the change in position towards the rear

FAQs

How can I use "lean backward" in a sentence?

You can use "lean backward" to describe a physical action, such as: "He had to "lean backward" to see the top of the building." or to imply a cautious or resistant attitude.

What's a synonym for "lean backward"?

Alternatives to "lean backward" include "bend backward", "incline backward", or "recline", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "leaned backward"?

Yes, "leaned backward" is the past tense form of "lean backward" and is grammatically correct. For example, "She "leaned backward" in her chair during the movie".

What does it mean to "lean over backward"?

To "lean over backward" is an idiom meaning to make a great effort, often to be helpful or accommodating. It's different from the literal meaning of "lean backward".