leading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is at the forefront or in a position of influence or guidance. Example: "The leading expert in the field presented her findings at the conference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Through her heroic struggle she has become a leading spokesperson for girls' rights to education".

The Guardian

She added: "This is further evidence that Paterson's unwillingness to accept the science on climate change is leading him to make the wrong choices on spending cuts within his department".

The Guardian

"I'm in a successful TV show in a kind of leading man way and it can sometimes feel like your art is being put to one side for your sex appeal.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"So the real challenge for us as we debate our role in the EU is working out what we should be pushing forward, what we should be leading on within the EU, to make it – and us – a more effective economic and global power".

The Guardian

There are such totems of postmodern urbanism as a Chinatown, a gay village and a bohemian Northern Quarter, fed by two leading universities and two successful football teams.

The Guardian

The governor's work leading New Jersey through the recovery from the storm, which damaged more than 360,000 homes and businesses, helped cement his national reputation as a no-nonsense, hard-driving governor willing to work closely with Democrats to get things done.

The Guardian

A leading academic study concludes there is "equivocal evidence regarding its magnitude".

The Guardian - Film

The next home secretary must include the Kincora boys' home scandal in the Westminster paedophile inquiry, according to a leading politician in east Belfast, where the abuse took place.

The Guardian

At present, plenty of people in the out camp reckon that if Farage is their leading voice, they will lose.

The Guardian - Opinion

MARIA CAULFIELD, 40 TORY, LEWES A nurse at the Royal Marsden hospital in London, where she is a research sister leading a team in breast cancer research, Caulfield is also an owner and shareholder of Lewes football club and a non-executive director of the local housing charity BHT Sussex, which works to prevent homelessness.

The Guardian

The decision of the whips to impose a three line whip means that David Burrowes, aide to Cabinet Office minister Oliver Letwin and a leading member of the no camp, is expected to abstain in the "programme motion" vote.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leading", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you mean 'guiding', 'ranking first', or 'occurring in advance' to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "leading" without clarifying the intended meaning. For example, 'a leading cause' differs significantly from 'leading a team'. Provide sufficient context to ensure clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The term "leading" primarily functions as a present participle of the verb "lead", often used in continuous verb tenses to describe an ongoing action. It can also function as an adjective to describe something that is in a position of prominence or guidance, as demonstrated by Ludwig in examples such as "a leading expert."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "leading" is a versatile term primarily functioning as a present participle or an adjective, frequently used in News & Media. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely employed to describe actions in progress or to indicate prominence and guidance. While generally neutral in register, its precise meaning depends heavily on context, necessitating careful attention to ensure clarity. Alternative phrases such as "guiding" or "at the forefront" can be used to convey similar meanings. When writing, be mindful of the potential for ambiguity and always provide adequate context to clarify the intended interpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guiding

Focuses on the act of providing direction and assistance, a core aspect of "leading".

at the forefront

Indicates being in the most advanced or prominent position, similar to "leading" in a competitive or innovative sense.

directing

Stresses the act of controlling and managing activities, similar to "leading" in a managerial context.

in charge

Emphasizes the responsibility and authority associated with directing a group or project, akin to "leading".

spearheading

Highlights the initiative and drive involved in initiating and "leading" a project or movement.

at the helm

Highlights the role of guiding and controlling an organization or initiative, much like "leading".

pioneering

Emphasizes the innovative aspect of "leading", particularly in new or unexplored areas.

presiding over

Implies overseeing and conducting a meeting or event, a form of "leading" in a formal setting.

governing

Focuses on the authoritative aspect of "leading", particularly in a political or organizational context.

commanding

Highlights the aspect of authority and control in "leading", often in military or hierarchical settings.

FAQs

How can I use "leading" in a sentence?

"Leading" can be used as an adjective to describe something that is at the forefront, such as "a leading expert". It can also be used as a verb, like in the sentence "He is leading the project".

What can I say instead of "leading"?

Alternatives include "guiding", "directing", or "at the forefront", depending on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "leading" and "managing"?

"Leading" implies guidance and direction, while "managing" focuses on control and organization. A leader inspires and motivates, whereas a manager ensures tasks are completed efficiently.

Is "leading" formal or informal?

"Leading" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality often depends on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.