I lead with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I lead with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the primary focus or approach one takes in a situation, often in a leadership or strategic context. Example: "In my presentations, I lead with the key findings to capture the audience's attention right away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

As he began listing his faults, Dr. Dean stumbled over the words "I wear cheap suits sometimes," which gave the impression he was reciting an adviser-vetted defense as he continued, "I say things that I probably ought not to say, but I lead with my heart, and that's what I was doing right there, is leading with my heart".

The New York Times

"I lead with friendliness.

The New Yorker

I lead with some core principles.

The New York Times

What if I lead with my head and no one gets hurt?

The New York Times

"With new sales hires, the first value I lead with is integrity.

The New Yorker

But I'm black, smart and I don't hide my intelligence, I lead with it.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

I led with my shoulder.

The New York Times - Sports

"They said I led with the crown of my helmet," Carter said.

The New York Times

When I described fellow members to other people, I led with their strengths and accomplishments: a brilliant ex-banker, a onetime speechwriter for a sitting vice president and a powerful intellectual with a global following.

The New York Times

"If I led with criticism," Erickson told me over coffee, describing the thinking behind the story he'd stayed up past one in the morning to write, "I know Trump supporters wouldn't read it".

The New Yorker

Our findings, illustrated in a review which I led with my co-author Jacqueline Stevenson to explain the persistently lower levels of wellbeing reported by black and minority ethnic (BME) populations in England, disproved this assumption.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I lead with", ensure it clearly indicates the most important aspect or approach you are prioritizing. This provides clarity and focus to your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "I lead with" when the element you mention is not genuinely the most important or initial aspect. Doing so can mislead your audience about your true priorities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I lead with" functions as a declaration of intent or approach. It introduces the key element or strategy that someone prioritizes or emphasizes in their actions or communication. As shown in Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used to express one's core principles or values.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I lead with" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey one's priorities or initial approach. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English and commonly indicates the primary focus someone takes in a situation. Predominantly found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, this phrase effectively communicates intentions and strategies. While versatile, ensure the context is appropriate to maintain clarity. Alternative phrases, like "I prioritize" or "I start with", can offer nuanced variations. Remember to use it accurately, emphasizing genuine priorities to avoid misleading your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I prioritize

Focuses on the act of giving precedence to something.

I start with

Emphasizes the initiation point of an action or strategy.

I begin with

Similar to "I start with", but can imply a more formal or structured beginning.

My primary focus is

Highlights the main area of attention or effort.

I emphasize

Indicates the importance given to a particular aspect.

I highlight

Similar to "I emphasize", but suggests bringing something to the forefront.

I initiate with

Focuses on the act of setting something in motion with a specific element.

My first step is

Clearly defines the initial action taken.

I foreground

Implies bringing something into prominence or making it the most noticeable aspect.

I open with

Suggests commencing a discourse or action with a specific element.

FAQs

What does it mean to "lead with" something?

To "lead with" something means to prioritize it, emphasize it, or make it the first thing you present or consider in a given situation. It indicates the primary focus or approach you take.

How can I use "I lead with" in a sentence?

You can use "I lead with" to explain your priorities or strategies. For example, "When negotiating, "I lead with" transparency to build trust."

What are some alternatives to "I lead with"?

Alternatives include phrases like "I prioritize", "I start with", or "my primary focus is", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "I lead with" in professional communication?

While generally acceptable, ensure the context is appropriate. In some formal settings, alternatives like "My primary focus is" might be more suitable, offering a slightly more professional tone.