Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
lead toe
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "lead toe" is not a standard expression in written English and may cause confusion.
It could potentially be used in a specific context related to footwear or mechanics, but it is not widely recognized. Example: "The lead toe of the shoe provides extra protection for the wearer's foot during heavy-duty work."
Wiki
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
To transition into fifth position, bring your other foot back toward your lead foot, bending your ankle so your heel is on top of your lead toe.
Wiki
You'll basically stand in first position and point with your lead toe to the front, to the side, and to the back.
Wiki
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
56 human-written examples
Drop your lead knee to the mat as soon as your foot makes contact, rolling over your lead toes.
Wiki
These studies reported that when wearing multifocal glasses versus single-lens glasses, older people displayed more variability in minimum vertical toe clearance when stepping up [ 7] and in foot placement (lead or trail toe-to-platform distance) when negotiating a raised surface [ 6].
Science
Muscular spasticity in the lower limbs can lead to toe-in gait and crouch gait, resulting in falls and the inability to balance during walking and ambulation training [ 5].
Iverson, playing with a broken left toe, led his team back with 18 first-half points, including a fast-break layup off a pass from Toni Kukoc with 9 minutes 8 seconds left in the second quarter that made the score 29-26 for Philadelphia, which never trailed again.
News & Media
The Golden Oriole had lead-colour toes, other parts oil-green, brocoli-brown and wine-yellow.
Wiki
There is one report that over-expression of either Tbx3 or Tbx2 in chick leg buds leads to toes becoming more posterior in character [27] while in human patients with mammary ulnar syndrome, associated with haplo-insufficiency of Tbx3, posterior digits can be lost or abnormally spaced [28].
Science
Wetter substrates lead to greater toe depths, regardless of gait, however, BKBH gaits have toe depths that are significantly greater than extended limb postures (Table 1).
Science
Signals from the FSRs were fed to a control box which was used to switch the PDLC sheet from transparent to translucent at either heel-contact of the penultimate (right) or final (left) step before the kerb-edge, and then from translucent to transparent at lead (right) foot (toe) contact with the lower floor level (figure 1a).
Science
The loss of one big toe led to his undoing, and he was hanged at Binghamton.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When describing dance techniques or athletic movements, use "lead toe" to clearly indicate the initiating digit in a sequence.
Common error
Ensure that the context makes it clear that "lead toe" refers to the toe initiating movement, as opposed to a toe made of lead or used for a different purpose. Consider using clarifying adjectives or descriptive phrases to avoid confusion.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "lead toe" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object within a sentence. It describes a specific toe—the one that initiates movement or direction. Ludwig AI shows examples in dance and sports contexts.
Frequent in
Wiki
37%
Science
33%
News & Media
30%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "lead toe" is a noun phrase that specifies the initiating toe in various movements, especially in dance and sports. While not extremely common, the phrase appears in diverse sources ranging from WikiHow to scientific articles. Ludwig AI indicates that "lead toe" is acceptable, though it is important to ensure clarity in context. Alternative phrases like "leading toe" or "front toe" can also be used. Remember to avoid ambiguity and consider your audience when using the phrase.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
primary toe
Replaces "lead" with "primary", emphasizing the toe's main or principal role.
front toe
Uses "front" instead of "lead", focusing on the toe's position.
leading toe
Emphasizes the action of leading with the toe.
forward toe
Highlights the forward direction of the toe.
toe in front
Rephrases to indicate the toe's position as being in the front.
first toe
Indicates the toe that comes first in a sequence or action.
dominant toe
Implies the toe that has the most influence or control in movement.
main toe
Indicates the most important or significant toe.
toe at the front
Specifies the toe's location at the foremost part of the foot.
initial toe
Highlights the toe that initiates a movement or action.
FAQs
What does "lead toe" mean in the context of dance?
In dance, "lead toe" typically refers to the toe of the foot that initiates a movement or points in a specific direction, guiding the rest of the body.
Can I use "leading toe" instead of "lead toe"?
Yes, "leading toe" is a valid alternative and may provide clearer understanding for some audiences. It emphasizes the action of leading with the toe, similar to how the phrase "leading edge" is used.
Is "lead toe" a formal or informal term?
"Lead toe" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter. In scientific or technical writing about biomechanics, a more formal term might be preferable, but in general discussions or instructional materials, it's perfectly acceptable.
How does the concept of "lead toe" apply to sports?
In sports, the "lead toe" can be crucial in activities requiring agility, balance, and quick directional changes. The placement and direction of the "front toe" often dictates the athlete's trajectory and power.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested