tilting to the left

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tilting to the left" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object or situation that is leaning or shifting towards the left side. Example: "The painting on the wall was tilting to the left, so I adjusted it to make it straight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

When allegations surfaced last month that Facebook routinely suppressed conservative points of view in its Trending Topics news section, the company worked aggressively to convince the public that it wasn't intentionally tilting to the left of the political spectrum.

The New York Times - Tech

After he had cleaned and dusted the room, he put an order to it all, as he had done with the things on the table — the dishes and food in mouseproof cannisters on the table beside the icebox, the two framed posters of mountains on the wall that were tilting to the left, the five photographs of unknown children on the bureau.

The New Yorker

At least 13 passengers were taken to hospitals for minor injuries sustained when they and scores of others were hurled from their seats as the sixth and seventh of 12 coaches ground into the rock and gravel of the track bed and came to a stop shortly before 8 a.m., tilting to the left at about a 30-degree angle.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The country has not tilted to the left in my view.

The New York Times - Magazine

He tilts to the left, but he does not lose his balance.

The New Yorker

His head has been tilted to the left, obscuring the entry point, just above his left ear.

The Guardian

All this, he says, supports the idea that most of those who shape these stories tilt to the left.

The New York Times - Books

Politically, he tilted to the left, but his undemonstrative bearing, like his suit and brogues, told a more upright tale.

The New Yorker

In a city that tilts to the left, the odds are—just on Ms Hidalgo's side.

The Economist

The volunteers thought they were standing upright but consistently guessed smaller numbers for the height of the Eiffel Tower when they were tilted to the left.

The Guardian

Ride-hail users are twice as likely to identify as Democrats than as Republicans (65%to33%3%), while home-share similarly tilts to the left (60% Democratic; 38% Republican).

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing political or ideological shifts, use "tilting to the left" to imply a gradual change rather than an abrupt transformation. This suggests a nuanced movement in perspective or policy.

Common error

Avoid using "tilting to the left" solely to describe physical objects. While accurate in that context, overuse dilutes its impact when discussing abstract concepts like political ideologies or social trends. Use synonyms, such as "leaning left" for variation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tilting to the left" primarily functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, often describing a directional movement or a figurative shift in ideology or opinion. Ludwig AI identifies its common usage in describing changes in political landscapes or viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tilting to the left" effectively communicates a directional shift or ideological change towards a more liberal or progressive position. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news media and science publications. When using the phrase, consider the subtle difference between literal and figurative applications, and choose synonyms like "leaning towards the left" or "shifting leftward" for variation and precision. While acceptable in a range of contexts, awareness of its connotations ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leaning towards the left

Replaces "tilting" with "leaning", emphasizing a directional bias.

inclining to the left

Substitutes "tilting" with "inclining", suggesting a tendency or preference.

shifting leftward

Focuses on the action of moving towards the left, using "leftward" as an adverb.

veering to the left

Implies a change in direction towards the left, often suddenly.

tending to the left

Highlights a general disposition or tendency to move to the left.

favoring the left

Emphasizes a preference or bias for the left.

drifting to the left

Suggests a gradual, unintentional movement to the left.

gravitating to the left

Indicates a natural pull or attraction towards the left.

moving towards the left

A more literal and general expression of shifting to the left.

becoming more left-leaning

Specifically indicates a growing political alignment with left-wing ideologies.

FAQs

What does it mean for something to be "tilting to the left" politically?

When discussing political ideologies, "tilting to the left" signifies a gradual shift towards more liberal or progressive viewpoints. It implies a change in policies, attitudes, or public sentiment towards left-leaning ideals.

What are some synonyms for "tilting to the left" in a political context?

Alternatives include "leaning left", "shifting leftward", or "becoming more liberal". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tilting to the left" a formal or informal expression?

The phrase "tilting to the left" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject. It is commonly used in news media and academic discussions, lending it a neutral register.

How can I use "tilting to the left" in a sentence?

Example: "The country's political landscape is gradually "tilting to the left" as younger voters become more engaged." It describes a gradual shift in political orientation.