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lead
/liːd/
to guide or direct
She will lead the team to victory.
She will guide the team toward success.
general
to guide or direct a group or person
The tour guide leads the group through the museum.
The tour guide guides the group through the museum.
Commonly used in contexts involving direction, management, or influence.
general
to be in charge or command
He leads a team of engineers.
He is in charge of a team of engineers.
Implies responsibility and authority over others.
Engineering
technical
a substance added to improve properties
The lead in pencils is made of graphite.
The graphite in pencils is a form of carbon.
Often confused with the verb 'lead' due to identical spelling but different pronunciation.
general
a position of advantage in a race or competition
She took the lead in the marathon.
She was in the leading position during the marathon.
Can also refer to a person or thing that is ahead.
general
to go first
The guide led us to the exit.
The guide went first to show us the way out.
Implies taking the initiative in movement or action.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Pronunciation Tip
Remember that 'lead' as a verb (to guide) is pronounced /liːd/, while 'lead' as a noun (the metal) is pronounced /lɛd/. Context will help you decide which one is being used.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Always check the context to determine whether 'lead' is being used as a verb (to guide) or a noun (the metal or a position ahead).
Word Origin
Old English 'lǣdan' (to guide), from Proto-Germanic '*laithjan', related to Old Norse 'leiða' and Gothic 'ga-leiþan'. The noun sense of 'position ahead' emerged in the 16th century.
Usage Notes
The verb 'lead' is pronounced /liːd/, while the noun 'lead' (the metal) is pronounced /lɛd/. Ensure correct pronunciation based on context to avoid confusion.
Word Breakdown
lead
guide or direct
rootlead
metal or position
rootEnglish Dictionary