godan verb (-ru), intransitive verb
topple and lean; fall against and lean
Describes something falling over and coming to rest at an angle, often leaning against another object. Emphasizes the resulting precarious, leaning state.
地震で本棚が倒れ掛かって、壁にもたれている。
The bookshelf toppled over in the earthquake and is leaning against the wall.
倒れ掛かった木
The fallen tree was leaning against the roof of the neighboring house.
godan verb (-ru), intransitive verb
be on the verge of collapse; about to fall
Focuses on the imminent collapse or falling motion itself, often without specifying what it leans against. Can be used for structures, plans, or figurative collapse.
その古い橋は今にも倒れ掛かりそうだ。
That old bridge looks like it's about to collapse at any moment.
会社は倒れ掛かっているが、まだ立て直せるかもしれない。
The company is on the brink of collapse, but it might still be possible to turn it around.