as in to like
to show partiality toward
I'm leaning toward sausage on our pizza tonight—we got pepperoni the last three times
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lean (toward or towards)
Verb
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These 5-second, 10-second and shot-clock turnovers are a good indicator of the aggressive style of full-court defense that Texas liked to play.—
Danny Davis,
Austin American Statesman,
4 Feb. 2026 -
Plus, the tomato fruitworm (also known as the corn earworm) likes to feed on both these veggies.—
Gemma Johnstone,
The Spruce,
4 Feb. 2026
Verb
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China may also prefer to maintain a lower renminbi value compared with other currencies, in order to support its export-reliant economy.—
Stephanie Yang,
CNN Money,
4 Feb. 2026
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Through the online application, eligible Californians can apply, while those who prefer in-person assistance can now drop by the new walk-in site for enrollment or document submission support.—
William Jones,
Sacbee.com,
3 Feb. 2026
Verb
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The same story played out in music, where AI tools lowered barriers to entry but platform economics still favored a few giants.—
Aisha Alves,
Rolling Stone,
3 Feb. 2026
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Weiss reiterated that changes in tort law favoring business interests have increased claim denials and litigation.—
J.C. Hallman,
Oklahoman,
3 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Lean (toward or towards).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lean%20%28toward%20or%20towards%29. Accessed 7 Feb. 2026.
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