lean on

USAGE SUMMARY

"lean on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You may use it when you are asking someone to depend on you for support or help. For example, "My friend has been really struggling lately, so I'm leaning on him whenever he needs me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You cant lean on that one forever.

Forbes

Some lean on canes.

The New York Times

Lean on your staff.

Harvard Business Review

They lean on the strings, bending space.

The New York Times - Arts

Lean on your social network.

Harvard University

It was convenient to lean on them.

The New York Times

Never lean on Bancroft materials.

University of California, Berkeley

Mary J. Blige sang, "Lean on Me".

Independent

Don't just lean on them.

The Guardian - Music

"Teams lean on him more.

The New York Times - Sports

We have to lean on it, and lean on it, and lean on it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing exerting influence, consider whether "lean on" accurately captures the nuance of persuasion or pressure.

Common error

Avoid using "lean on" when the context clearly indicates coercion or manipulation, as it can soften the severity of the action. More direct terms like "pressure" or "coerce" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "lean on" primarily functions as an intransitive verb, indicating dependence or reliance on someone or something for support. Ludwig AI confirms its usage as a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

26%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "lean on" signifies dependence and support, whether physical, emotional, or strategic. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in written English. It is commonly found in news and academic contexts, indicating its versatility across different registers. While it primarily conveys reliance, it can also imply exerting influence, though care should be taken to avoid misrepresenting coercion. Consider alternatives like "depend on" or "rely on" for nuanced expression. Use "lean on" when you want to accurately describe needing assistance and support or exerting soft influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

depend on

Similar in meaning, but focuses more on reliance for a specific need or outcome.

rely on

Emphasizes trust and confidence in someone or something.

count on

Implies a strong expectation that someone will be there for support.

turn to

Highlights the act of seeking assistance or comfort from someone.

seek support from

More formal and direct, emphasizing the active search for assistance.

pressure someone

Focuses on exerting influence, often to compel a specific action.

exert influence on

A more formal way to describe applying pressure.

rest on

Can imply dependence for physical support or for success.

find strength in

Highlights the positive aspect of gaining resilience through reliance.

draw upon

Suggests utilizing resources or support that are available.

FAQs

What does it mean to "lean on" someone?

To "lean on" someone means to depend on them for support, help, or comfort during a difficult time. It implies a reliance on their strength or resources.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "lean on"?

It's appropriate to use "lean on" when you want to express the idea of relying on someone for assistance, whether it's emotional, physical, or practical. It's also used when talking about exerting influence on someone.

What can I say instead of "lean on" when referring to support?

You can use alternatives like "depend on", "rely on", or "count on" to express similar meanings of reliance and support.

How is "lean on" different from "pressure someone"?

"Lean on" can sometimes imply exerting influence, but "pressure someone" is a more direct way to describe attempting to compel a person to do something, often against their will.