"Lead" can be a verb (pronounced /liːd/) or a noun (pronounced /lɛd/). The context usually clarifies which meaning is intended.
Frequency of Use: - The verb "lead" is commonly used both in oral and written contexts, with frequent appearances in leadership discussions, directions, and guidance strategies. - The noun form "lead" is less common compared to the verb and is often used in specific contexts, particularly in investigative scenarios.
She decided to lead the team through the project successfully.
(Translation: Ella decidió dirigir al equipo a través del proyecto con éxito.)
The detective received a lead that could solve the case.
(Translation: El detective recibió una pista que podría resolver el caso.)
Good leaders lead by example, inspiring their team.
(Translation: Los buenos líderes dirigen con el ejemplo, inspirando a su equipo.)
The term "lead" appears in several idiomatic expressions:
Example: Leaders should lead by example to motivate their employees.
(Translation: Los líderes deberían dirigir con el ejemplo para motivar a sus empleados.)
Lead someone on: To mislead or deceive someone into thinking there is romantic interest.
Example: He didn't mean to lead her on, but he never set clear boundaries.
(Translation: No quiso darle falsas esperanzas, pero nunca estableció límites claros.)
Take the lead: To assume control or responsibility.
Example: She is willing to take the lead on this new initiative.
(Translation: Ella está dispuesta a asumir el control de esta nueva iniciativa.)
Lead the charge: To be the first to take action in a particular situation.
The verb "lead" comes from the Old English "lædan," which means "to guide, bring, or draw." The noun "lead," referring to the metal, comes from the Old English "lead," which is derived from Proto-Germanic "*laidą," meaning "lead." Although they share the same spelling, the meanings and pronunciations are quite distinct, with this being a common case of polysemy in English.
Synonyms for the verb "lead":
- Direct
- Guide
- Conduct
- Steer
Antonyms for the verb "lead":
- Follow
- Submit
- Yield
Synonyms for the noun "lead":
- Tip
- Cue
- Clue
Antonyms for the noun "lead":
- Follower
- Outlier
- Subordinate