lean frame

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'lean frame' is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used to describe someone who is thin or someone who has a narrow body shape. For example, "He had a lean frame and wore loose-fitting clothes to conceal his skinny figure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

His lean frame had become a stalk.

The New York Times

Skarsgård, hunching his lean frame into a stoop, relishes it.

The Guardian - Film

Partly because, with his accosting profile and lean frame, he presented an ineradicable physical image.

The Guardian

His tall, lean frame and leathery face became synonymous with Australia.

The Guardian - Film

The Splendid Splinter effectively depicted the lean frame of Ted Williams.

The New York Times

Seikaly, a human metronome, bobbed his long, lean frame to the beat.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Twice in the last year he has pummeled the middleweight champion Jermain Taylor, uncorking his lean, 6-foot-2 frame and 75-inch reach to ascend to undisputed champion in the 160-pound division.

The New York Times - Sports

A soft layer of flab coats his once-lean frame and his face is cherubic - until, that is, you meet his eyes: for they retain a primeval intensity that confirm a devilish competitor still lurks somewhere within.

The Guardian - Sport

Valenti was invited to meet with Johnson at Houston's Shamrock Hilton Hotel, and, not long after, he offered his impressions of the Senator in a weekly column he wrote for the Houston Post: "He's a tall man, tall in the cord-lean frame of a man used to being fit.

The New Yorker

Ellis said he feels considerably stronger than he did last spring, when he reported to camp with a leaner frame to lessen the burden on his troublesome left knee.

Los Angeles Times

Reverse pleated trousers give the pants a more robust appearance; well suited for leaner frames.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character, use "lean frame" to subtly convey their physical condition and lifestyle, such as athleticism or hardship.

Common error

Avoid using "lean frame" when the context requires describing someone with a muscular build or a larger body type, as it specifically implies a slender or thin physique.

Linguistic Context

Adjectival phrase modifying a noun. The phrase "lean frame" functions as a descriptive element, providing specific details about the physical build or structure of an individual or object. It indicates a physique characterized by slenderness and minimal excess fat, contributing to a more vivid and precise image.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Film

15%

Sport

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lean frame" is a common and grammatically correct descriptor used to depict a slender or thin body structure. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, supported by numerous examples from reputable sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian and The New Yorker. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it serves to provide a concise and evocative physical description. Alternatives include "slim physique" and "slender build", offering nuanced variations. When using "lean frame", ensure it accurately reflects the subject's physical characteristics, avoiding its application to individuals with muscular or larger builds.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slim physique

Emphasizes the overall slenderness and build of a person's body.

slender build

Focuses on the narrowness and elegance of the body's structure.

athletic build

Highlights the fit and toned nature of the body, suggesting physical prowess.

trim figure

Refers to a neat and well-maintained body shape.

slight stature

Emphasizes the smallness and delicacy of a person's physical presence.

lithe body

Suggests flexibility, grace, and ease of movement in addition to slenderness.

wiry physique

Highlights a lean but strong and resilient build.

gaunt figure

Emphasizes thinness to the point of appearing unhealthy or worn.

angular frame

Focuses on the sharp, bony aspects of the body's structure.

attenuated build

Highlights the reduced or weakened condition of the body, often due to illness or deprivation.

FAQs

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

You can use "lean frame" to describe someone's physique, such as "The athlete had a "lean frame", which helped him excel in endurance sports".

What are some alternatives to describing someone with a "lean frame"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "slim physique", "slender build", or "athletic build".

Is it appropriate to use "lean frame" in formal writing?

Yes, "lean frame" is appropriate for formal writing as it is a descriptive and objective term. Its use depends on the specific context and desired level of detail.

What does "lean frame" imply about a person's physical appearance?

"Lean frame" suggests a slender or thin body structure, often implying a lack of excess fat and sometimes suggesting athleticism or physical fitness.