leading edge

USAGE SUMMARY

"leading edge" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to refer to either the leading edge of something physical (such as a blade), or the leading edge of a concept (such as a new trend in fashion). For example, you could say "The company has positioned itself at the leading edge of technology development in its industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Leading edge of the lumen intima interface to leading edge of the media adventitia defined cIMT.

Diabetes and Vascular Disease Research

This is the leading edge of the construction.

The New York Times

Yemen is the leading edge of this trend.

The New York Times

Was it the leading edge, we don't know.

The New York Times

And he's still out there on the leading edge today.

The Guardian - Books

The UK's leading edge in creativity may be lost.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Trailing-to-leading edge (ie, the inner diameter) was used.

Heart

She added, "art is a leading-edge perception driver".

The New York Times - Arts

"That's where the leading-edge thinking is measured".

The New York Times

Leading-edge trends change, but not every month.

The New York Times

This is still a leading-edge trend.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leading edge", ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a physical object or an abstract concept. For instance, "the leading edge of the wing" versus "the leading edge of technological innovation".

Common error

Avoid using "leading edge" in ambiguous contexts where it is unclear whether you mean a physical edge or a conceptual forefront. Provide sufficient context to clarify your intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leading edge" primarily functions as a modifier combined with a noun to describe something at the forefront of a particular field or area. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Reference

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leading edge" is a common and grammatically sound expression that describes the forefront or most advanced position in a particular field. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage across diverse contexts, including science, news, and business. While versatile, it is most often used in neutral to professional registers. To ensure clarity, it's important to provide context indicating whether you're referencing something physical or abstract. Related phrases include "cutting edge" and "vanguard", offering alternatives for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cutting edge

Focuses on the newest, most advanced stage in the development of something.

vanguard

Emphasizes the role of being in the forefront or the leading position in a movement or trend.

forefront

Highlights the position of being in the most prominent or influential position.

state of the art

Refers to the highest level of development of a device, technique, or scientific field achieved at a particular time.

pioneering

Stresses the act of being the first to develop or use something.

trendsetting

Indicates setting new styles or trends that others follow.

innovative

Highlights the characteristic of being new, original, and inventive.

groundbreaking

Emphasizes the characteristic of being revolutionary or making new discoveries.

advanced

Highlights the quality of being beyond the basic level.

progressive

Indicates favoring or promoting change or innovation.

FAQs

How can I use "leading edge" in a sentence?

You can use "leading edge" to describe the most advanced position in a field, like "This research puts our company at the "leading edge" of cancer treatment", or to refer to the foremost part of a physical object, like "The airplane's "leading edge" is reinforced to withstand high speeds".

What's the difference between "leading edge" and "cutting edge"?

"Leading edge" and "cutting edge" are often used interchangeably, but "cutting edge" more strongly implies something is brand new and potentially unproven, while "leading edge" can also suggest a more established, though still advanced, position.

Which is correct, "leading edge technology" or "leading edge technologies"?

Both are grammatically correct depending on the context. "Leading edge technology" is suitable when referring to technology in a general sense. "Leading edge technologies" is appropriate when referring to specific, multiple advanced technologies.

What are some fields where the term "leading edge" is commonly used?

The term "leading edge" is frequently used in fields like technology, aerospace, finance, and medicine, to describe the most advanced research, products, or strategies in those areas.