lead dog

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lead dog" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the primary or most important figure in a group, often in a leadership context, or literally in the context of sled dog teams. Example: "In our project, Sarah is the lead dog, guiding the team towards our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Travel

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The lead dog.

The New York Times

"Uncle Ted", he says, is the lead dog.

The Economist

"When you're not the lead dog, you're just trying to follow the pricing and category assortments of the lead dog, and that's a recipe for financial flu".

The New York Times

The lead dog in unveiling the complicated plan was Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr.

The New York Times

And all of them in thrall to lead dog Luna, the indefatigable alpha female.

The Guardian - Travel

The whole family has to be involved, but one person has to be the lead dog".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

When pursued, they lead dogs into the water to drown.

The New York Times - Sports

Lead dogs that understand directions are called command, or gee/haw, leaders.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Those are two of our smartest lead dogs," Mikka told me afterward.

The New York Times - Travel

(An ancillary problem: the lead dogs on the college-football beat who earn promotions for catching sophomores smoking pot).

The New Yorker

Staff members in khakis and polo shirts lead dogs through exercises and reward them with yogurt vegetable parfaits.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lead dog" metaphorically, ensure the context is clear and that the leadership or pioneering role is evident. For instance, in project management, clearly identify who is driving the project forward.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "lead dog" implies absolute authority. While the lead dog sets the pace, it still works within a team; don't portray the role as dictatorial or without collaboration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lead dog" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It identifies either the specific dog leading a sled team or, metaphorically, the individual taking charge in a particular situation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

25%

Literature

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lead dog" is a common noun phrase that refers to the dog leading a sled team or, metaphorically, the person taking charge. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and readily usable in various contexts. It is frequently used in news, sports, and literature, indicating its versatility. When using the phrase, ensure that the context makes it clear that the person is driving the action forward, without necessarily acting alone. Alternatives like "top dog" or "front runner" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

top dog

Implies the person in charge, the one at the highest level.

front runner

Indicates the person or entity that is leading in a race or competition.

head honcho

Informal term for the person in charge, the leader.

mastermind

Highlights the planner behind a complex project or scheme.

principal driver

Highlights the main factor propelling a process or project forward.

main impetus

Emphasizes the force that initiates a particular action or process.

chief instigator

Focuses on initiating action, often implying a driving force behind something.

point person

Highlights the individual who is the main contact or representative.

key player

Emphasizes the importance of an individual in a group setting.

chief executive

Refers to the highest-ranking executive in an organization.

FAQs

What does "lead dog" mean in the context of dog sledding?

In dog sledding, the "lead dog" is the dog that runs in front of the other dogs, setting the pace and direction for the team.

What does it mean when someone is referred to as the "lead dog" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, the "lead dog" is the person who takes the initiative, sets the direction, and leads a group or project. They are the driving force behind the effort.

Are there any negative connotations associated with being called the "lead dog"?

While generally positive, the term can sometimes imply a heavy burden of responsibility or being overly assertive. Context is crucial in determining the connotation.

What can I say instead of "lead dog" to describe someone in charge?

You can use alternatives like "top dog", "front runner", or "chief instigator" depending on the context.