leer
verb C2
Plain meaning
to look at someone in an unpleasant, suggestive way
Exam-register meaning
In formal or high-level texts, it is used to describe to look at someone in an unpleasant, suggestive way, often with a precise or specialised tone.
In context
naturalThe team tried to leer the problem before it became serious.
examThe report argues that institutions should leer ineffective practices through evidence-based reform.
Common collocations
leer a proposalleer the issueleer in practice
Watch out
Do not use “leer” with every object. Check the object that follows it and avoid using it when a simpler verb is more natural.
Word family
leering (verb form)leered (past/participle, where regular)