lean on for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lean on for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing reliance or dependence on someone or something for support or assistance. Example: "During tough times, I often lean on my friends for emotional support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

We offer you our condolences and prayers, our love and friendship and as many shoulders to lean on for as long as you need them.

The New York Times

She felt he was selfless when it came to helping others, but he had no one to lean on for such help.

Wikipedia

"He was a shoulder to lean on for kids.

The New York Times - Sports

But even if it doesn't hold, there are other sectors writers can lean on for support.

The New York Times

She also knows how blessed she is to have sisters to lean on for help.

The New York Times

"I didn't have nobody I could really lean on for advice, help, anything.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

Editor's Note: Difficult times have been known to bring communities together as people lean on one another for support.

Huffington Post

They lean on one another and friends for support.

The New York Times

Drawn by sympathy and the need for advice, George Eliot soon began to lean on him for affection too.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the pilot, Sally will have already been married to Gavin for a year and she'll lean on friends for advice during the divorce.

Huffington Post

"I got leaned on for two hours with a mixture of pressure and false promises.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lean on for", ensure the context clearly indicates the type of support being sought. Specificity enhances clarity. For instance, "lean on for emotional support" is more precise than just "lean on for support".

Common error

Avoid portraying "lean on for" as a one-sided relationship. While seeking support is valid, acknowledge the importance of reciprocity in healthy relationships. It's not only about who you "lean on for" support but also who you support in return.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lean on for" functions as a verb phrase indicating reliance or dependence on someone or something. It's used to express the act of seeking support, guidance, or assistance, and Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lean on for" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of seeking support or assistance from someone or something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While alternatives like "rely on for" and "depend on for" exist, "lean on for" often carries a nuance of emotional or personal support. It's important to use the phrase in contexts where the type of support is clear and to be mindful of the reciprocal nature of supportive relationships. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, reflecting its accessibility and widespread understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rely upon for

Emphasizes dependence and trust, differing slightly in formality.

depend on for

Highlights reliance on someone or something, closely mirroring the original phrase's meaning.

count on for

Suggests a sense of assured reliance, implying confidence in the support received.

turn to for

Focuses on seeking assistance or guidance, highlighting the act of reaching out.

seek support from

Emphasizes the active pursuit of aid, shifting the focus to the seeker.

find solace in

Highlights emotional comfort and support, changing the context slightly.

draw strength from

Focuses on gaining resilience and fortitude from an external source.

bank on for

Implies a strategic reliance, suggesting careful planning and expectation.

place confidence in

Emphasizes trust and belief in someone's ability or willingness to help.

rest on for

Highlights the foundational dependence on someone or something, suggesting a critical role.

FAQs

How can I use "lean on for" in a sentence?

You can use "lean on for" to describe relying on someone or something for support. For example, "During difficult times, it's important to have friends you can "lean on for" emotional support".

What are some alternatives to "lean on for"?

Alternatives include phrases like "rely on for", "depend on for", or "turn to for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "leaned on for"?

Yes, "leaned on for" is the past tense form and is grammatically correct when describing a past event. For instance, "I "leaned on" my family "for" support during my recovery".

What's the difference between "lean on for" and "rely on for"?

While both phrases convey dependence, "lean on for" often implies seeking emotional or personal support, whereas "rely on for" can be used in a broader context, including practical or material assistance. They are largely interchangeable, but context can guide the best choice.