lend oneself or itself to

lend (oneself) to (something)

To give one's talent, skills, or effort to assist in some task, project, endeavor, etc. The famous actor is lending herself to the charity drive, promising to match the total amount donated dollar for dollar. I've lent myself to a new TV show as a writing consultant.

See also: lend, to

lend itself to (something)

To be suited for something, especially some kind of purpose or use. This fabric really lends itself to evening wear. The chefs are always looking for versatile ingredients that lend themselves to many dishes.

See also: itself, lend, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

lend oneself or itself to something

Fig. [for someone or something] to be adaptable to something; [for someone or something] to be useful for something. This room doesn't lend itself to bright colors. John doesn't lend himself to casual conversation. I don't think that this gown lends itself to outdoor occasions.

See also: itself, lend, to

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.