take the lead — To assume a position of leadership or to be the first to do something, guiding others or setting an example
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: To assume a position of leadership or to be the first to do something, guiding others or setting an example
Pronunciation (IPA): /teɪk ðə liːd/
Example Sentences
- Nobody wanted to speak first, so I took the lead and started the presentation.
- My little brother always takes the lead when we play video games, even though he loses every time.
- After the CEO stepped down, someone had to take the lead immediately to calm the employees.
take the lead
VERB[/teɪk ðə liːd/]
To assume a position of leadership or to be the first to do something, guiding others or setting an example
The blue runner surges ahead to take the lead on the final lap.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old English 'lædan' meaning 'to guide' - the phrase literally means 'to grab the guiding position', like holding the leash that directs the way.
Breakdown
take (to grab/assume) + the lead (the guiding position or front position)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Nobody wanted to speak first, so I took the lead and started the presentation.”
“My little brother always takes the lead when we play video games, even though he loses every time.”
“After the CEO stepped down, someone had to take the lead immediately to calm the employees.”
“In the marathon, the turtle took the lead for exactly three seconds before the rabbit woke up.”
📚Related Words
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