be at the head

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be at the head" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate leadership or being in a position of authority. Example: "She will be at the head of the committee." Alternative expressions include "lead the way" and "be in charge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the Muslim world Jews ate a sheep's head so "that they may be at the head and not at the tail and hold their heads up high".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'll be at the head of the line to buy a copy.

The New Yorker

But I won't be at the head of the queue to try it.

The Guardian - Tech

By those criteria, Osama bin Laden should be at the head of the list.

The New York Times

Gay people are often said to be at the head of trends.

The Guardian

There shall be at the head of the Office an Administrator who shall be appointed by the President.

Cornell University

"The Chinese host will be at the head of the table and he will be facing the door.

The New York Times

If there is a street demonstration in Buenos Aires, Mr. Artaza is likely to be at the head of it.

The New York Times

Beating on a drum, Mr. Parker was where he might be expected to be: at the head of the procession.

The New York Times - Arts

But if you give guys soccer I.Q.'s, he would be at the head of his class.

The New York Times - Sports

2. Ducere familiam, in gen., to lead a company, i. e. to be at the head, be the first: Lucius quidem, frater ejus, familiam ducit, Cic.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be at the head", ensure that the context clearly indicates what or whom is being led. For example, "She will "be at the head" of the research team."

Common error

Avoid using "be at the head" when referring to simple physical positions in a line. Instead, reserve it for scenarios where leadership or authority is genuinely implied. Being first in line doesn't mean you "be at the head" if you do not exercise leadership or authority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be at the head" primarily functions as a predicate indicating a position of leadership, authority, or prominence. It describes who is leading a group, organization, or initiative. Examples from Ludwig indicate that it describes someone in charge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

14%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be at the head" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to denote leadership or a position of authority. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is widely used in various contexts, predominantly in news and media, as well as in academic settings. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where genuine leadership is implied, avoiding its use for simple physical positioning. Alternatives like "lead", "be in charge", or "be the leader" can be used to provide variety. Remember to ensure the context clearly defines what is being led when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lead

This alternative offers a concise way to express taking charge or guiding a group.

be in charge

This phrase directly indicates responsibility and control over a situation or group.

be in command

Implies authority and control, often used in formal or military contexts.

be the leader

This alternative clearly identifies someone as the person who guides or directs others.

head up

A more informal way to say "be at the head", suggesting the act of managing or directing something.

be at the forefront

This phrase emphasizes being in a leading position, often in terms of innovation or progress.

spearhead

Implies leading an initiative or movement with energy and determination.

govern

Suggests a formal role of leadership and control, often within an organization or political context.

preside over

Implies authority and control over meetings or proceedings.

be at the helm

This alternative suggests being in control, guiding and directing an activity.

FAQs

How can I use "be at the head" in a sentence?

You can use "be at the head" to indicate leadership or being in a position of authority. For example, "He will "be at the head" of the project team" or "The CEO will "be at the head" of the company's restructuring efforts."

What are some alternatives to "be at the head"?

Alternatives to "be at the head" include "lead", "be in charge", or "be the leader", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "be at the head" in formal writing?

Yes, "be at the head" is suitable for formal writing, especially when referring to leadership roles or positions of authority within organizations or projects.

What's the difference between "be at the head" and "be at the front"?

"Be at the head" typically implies a leadership role or authority, while "be at the front" simply indicates a physical position ahead of others. For instance, someone can "be at the front" of a line without necessarily "be at the head" of anything.