(1) The mayor leaned over backward to avoid the appearance of nepotism.

(2) He leans over backwards to make up for what he has lost.

(3) Jackson is leaning over backwards to persuade his wealthy uncle.

(4) They leaned over backwards to persuade him out of his plan.

(5) He leaned over backward to curry favour with influential officials.

(6) Stuart was leaning over backwards to see Oliver's point of view.