What does slant mean?
Slant describes an incline or oblique direction, as when a road rises unevenly, a wall is not perfectly upright, or light falls at an angle. It can also refer to a broader tendency or bias, especially in phrases such as “a political slant” or “a slant toward a particular interpretation.” As a verb, slant means to incline, tilt, or move at an angle, but it can also mean to present something with a particular bias or emphasis. The noun and verb are especially common in descriptions of physical geometry, movement, design, weather, and landscape. Although “slant” can suggest that something is noticeably uneven or deliberately biased, it is broader and more neutral than words such as “prejudice.” The word is equally natural in British and American English and is useful when describing both physical angles and figurative tendencies.
An oblique direction or surface; a position that is not level or perpendicular.
"The tower stood at a slight slant to the horizon."
The figurative sense refers to a tendency, bias, or characteristic direction of interpretation.
To incline at an angle or move in an oblique direction.
"The mast slanted towards the western wall."
Figuratively, it can mean to present a subject with a particular bias or emphasis.
Inclined at an angle; oblique.
"They followed the slant path toward the river."
This form is less common than the noun and verb and is often used in descriptions of lines, surfaces, or writing.
The plural is used for distinct angles, inclinations, viewpoints, or biases.
"The magazine was criticized for its political slants."
A slant can describe a tilted surface, a suspicious look, or a strong bias—an unexpectedly broad range for one ordinary word.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does slant come from?
The word comes through Middle English from an Old English verb meaning “to slope” or “be oblique.” Its development extended naturally from the physical inclination of a surface or line to a figurative tendency or bias. The exact remote origin of the word is not clear enough to state confidently.
Related word forms
How slant is actually used
In figurative contexts, slant often suggests a tendency, bias, or interpretive angle. It is common in British and American English, while “bias” may sound more neutral in formal discussions of statistics or public policy.
Easily confused with slant
Slant describes an incline or oblique direction, whereas slight means small in degree or importance.