leaning toward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leaning toward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a preference or inclination towards a particular option or idea. Example: "After considering all the proposals, I find myself leaning toward the one that emphasizes sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I am leaning toward appendicitis.

The New Yorker

I'm leaning toward the latter.

The New York Times

I'm leaning toward Trump.

The New Yorker

A leaning toward procrastination.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's leaning toward West Point Gray.

The New York Times

He said he was leaning toward Ennahda.

The New York Times

But I was leaning toward that".

The New York Times - Sports

Now, they're leaning toward Mr. Santorum.

The New York Times

He is leaning toward an iPad.

The New York Times - Books

I was leaning toward a Mac.

The New York Times

"We're leaning toward moving," Henry said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "leaning toward" when you want to express a tentative preference or direction, without implying a final decision. For example, "I'm leaning toward accepting the job offer, but I need to consider the benefits package more carefully."

Common error

Avoid using "leaning toward" when a decision has already been made. The phrase suggests uncertainty, so using it after a firm choice creates confusion. Instead, use phrases like "I decided on" or "I chose".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leaning toward" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle construction with a preposition, used to express a provisional inclination or tendency. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates a direction of thought or preference without a firm decision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "leaning toward" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a tentative preference or inclination. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. Appearing most frequently in news and media contexts, it conveys a direction of thought without a firm decision. While "leaning toward" is suitable for various contexts, avoid using it when a definitive choice has been made. Alternative phrases like "inclining towards" or "tending to" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Using this guide will ensure that you effectively utilize "leaning toward" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inclining towards

Formal alternative that suggests a gradual movement of opinion or preference.

tending to

Indicates a general direction or habit, less decisive than "leaning toward".

favoring

Suggests a positive bias or preference.

partial to

Informal way of expressing a liking or preference for something.

gravitating toward

Implies a natural or irresistible pull towards something.

predisposed to

Suggests a prior inclination or susceptibility.

becoming inclined to

Describes a shift in preference or opinion.

developing a preference for

Highlights the gradual development of a liking.

warming to

Suggests a gradual increase in enthusiasm or liking.

having a proclivity for

Formal and emphasizes a natural tendency or inclination.

FAQs

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

You can use "leaning toward" to express a tentative preference or inclination, such as "I am leaning toward a career in science". It indicates that you are considering something but haven't made a final decision.

What's a more formal way to say "leaning toward"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "inclining towards", "tending to", or "becoming inclined to". These alternatives offer a similar meaning with a slightly elevated register.

Which is correct, "leaning toward" or "leaning towards"?

"Leaning toward" and "leaning towards" are both acceptable, although "leaning toward" is more commonly used. The choice often depends on regional preferences or stylistic guidelines.

What can I say instead of "leaning toward" to indicate a stronger preference?

To show a stronger preference, consider using phrases like "favoring", "preferring", or "inclined to". These alternatives suggest a more decisive inclination.