来自lever,杠杆。即杠杆作用，用于多种比喻义。

1. The spade and fork have longer shafts, providing better leverage.

锹和耙的手柄较长，可发挥较好的杠杆作用。

2. We'll have to use leverage to move this huge rock.

我们不得不借助杠杆之力来移动这块巨石.

3. He has some leverage over the politician.

他对这位政界人士有些影响.

4. His function as a Mayor affords him the leverage to get things done through attending committee meetings.

他的市长身份使他有能力通过出席委员会会议来达成一些事情。

5. It's the secretary's man; I have a lot of leverage.

作为部长的红人, 我具有不少的影响.