a lead

USAGE SUMMARY

"a lead" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to a clue or piece of information that can help guide someone towards a solution or understanding of a situation. Example: The detective was excited when he found a lead that pointed towards the identity of the suspect.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Finally, a lead emerged.

The New Yorker

Someone, somewhere has to take a lead.

The New York Times - Sports

Build a lead A&M did.

The New York Times

The hosts soon took a lead.

Independent

It went over like a lead balloon.

The New York Times

At last, fellow travelers, a lead.

The New York Times

Now the police had a lead.

The New York Times

"But you'd rather have a lead.

The New York Times - Sports

He wasn't even a lead developer.

The New Yorker

Neither team ever lost a lead.

The New Yorker

They'll sink like a lead balloon.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a lead" to mean a clue or piece of information, ensure the context clearly indicates what the lead relates to, enhancing clarity and preventing ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "lead" when the past tense "led" is required. "Lead" is a noun or present tense verb, while "led" indicates past action. For example, use "The investigation led to new evidence" instead of "The investigation lead to new evidence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lead" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes something that guides or directs, such as a clue in an investigation or an advantage in a competition. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lead" is a common and grammatically sound phrase with multiple applications. Primarily functioning as a noun phrase, it conveys the presence of a guiding element or advantage. Examples from Ludwig highlight its neutral register and widespread use in news, general writing, and business. Remember to avoid confusing "lead" with "led". Alternative phrases such as "a clue" or "an advantage" can provide variety in your writing. Ludwig AI underscores its versatility and correctness, making it a valuable addition to your linguistic toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clue

Focuses on the aspect of information that helps solve a mystery or problem.

a piece of information

Highlights the informational aspect, without necessarily implying it's a key piece.

an advantage

Emphasizes the beneficial aspect of having a leading position.

an edge

Similar to "advantage", but suggests a more subtle or slight benefit.

a head start

Focuses on the idea of beginning before others, implying an early advantage.

a first move

Highlights the initiation of an action or process.

an opening

Suggests an opportunity or initial advantage.

a pioneering effort

Implies being the first to do something, emphasizing innovation.

a guiding principle

Highlights the role of something as a primary driver or influence.

a primary role

Focuses on the importance and centrality of a particular function or position.

FAQs

How can "a lead" be used in a sentence?

The phrase "a lead" can be used in several contexts. For example, "The police followed "a lead" in the investigation" or "Our team has "a lead" in sales this quarter".

What does "a lead" mean when referring to sports?

In sports, "a lead" means having an advantage in score or position over the opponent. For instance, "The team maintained "a lead" throughout the game".

What can I say instead of "a lead" when referring to a clue?

When referring to a clue, you can use alternatives like "a clue", "a hint", or "a piece of information depending on the context".

Is it correct to say "have a lead" or "has a lead"?

Both "have a lead" and "has a lead" are grammatically correct, but they depend on the subject. Use "have a lead" with plural subjects (e.g., "They have a lead"), and "has a lead" with singular subjects (e.g., "She has a lead").