crossword clue lean – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "crossword clue lean", categorized by letter count for your convenience. Get quick, accurate help to complete your puzzle!
Solutions for "crossword clue lean" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TILT: To incline or cause to incline; often for a slight angle or shift from vertical.
BEND: To force (something straight) into a curve or angle; can imply leaning into a turn or being inclined.
RELY: To depend on with full trust or confidence, as in 'lean on someone for support'.
LIST: (Of a ship or boat) to tilt to one side, typically because of a shift in cargo or damage.
5 Letters
SLOPE: To lie or go at an angle; a surface of which one end or side is at a higher level than another.
LURCH: To make an abrupt, unsteady, uncontrolled movement or series of movements; often implying a sudden lean or tilt.
PITCH: To throw or to fall heavily in a specified direction, or (of a ship/aircraft) to rise and fall alternately at the bow and stern.
7 Letters
INCLINE: To deviate from the horizontal or vertical; a more formal term for leaning or sloping.
More About "crossword clue lean"
The word "lean" is a versatile term that can appear in crosswords with several different meanings, making it a potentially tricky clue. Its most common interpretations involve physical inclination or dependence. When you encounter "lean" in a puzzle, consider whether the setter is looking for a synonym for 'tilt,' 'bend,' or 'slope' in a physical sense, or 'rely' or 'depend' if the clue hints at support or reliance.
Beyond physical angles and dependency, "lean" can also refer to something being thin or having minimal fat, as in 'lean meat.' This semantic range means that the context of the clue is paramount. Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning, such as "on," "against," "to one side," or "meat." The number of letters in the answer grid will also be a critical factor in determining the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many common words, like "lean," have several dictionary definitions. Always brainstorm all possible interpretations of the clue before settling on an answer.
- Check Cross-References: If you're stuck, look at the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These letters are your best guide and can often unlock the correct solution for a tricky clue.
- Think About Phrasal Verbs: "Lean" is often used in phrasal verbs (e.g., "lean on," "lean into," "lean against"). While the answer itself might be a single word, the clue could be hinting at one of these common expressions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'lean' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'lean' in crosswords include TILT, BEND, SLOPE, INCLINE, and sometimes words like RELY (when 'lean' implies dependency) or LIST (for a ship).
How does context help when 'lean' is a crossword clue?
Context is crucial. If the clue hints at physical posture or angle, answers like TILT or BEND are likely. If it refers to dependency, RELY is a strong candidate. Look at the surrounding words in the clue and the number of letters in the answer grid.
Can 'lean' refer to being thin in crosswords?
Yes, 'lean' can absolutely refer to being thin or having little fat. If the clue implies body composition or a lack of excess, answers like THIN, SPARE, or SLIM might be appropriate. Always consider all possible meanings of the clue word, even if they seem less common for "lean" initially.