of a lead

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of a lead" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to business, sales, or journalism, often referring to a potential client or a piece of information that guides a story. Example: "The marketing team is currently following up on a lead that could significantly boost our sales this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Neither team got much of a lead.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was not enough of a lead.

The Guardian - Sport

He fits more closely the image one might have of a lead advocate for this cause.

The New York Times - Magazine

Only once was their fate the subject of a lead editorial.

The New York Times

Dr. Dolan said: "This is more in the nature of a lead.

The New York Times

In truth, the amendment has been generating all the Capitol momentum of a lead balloon.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Except it rather removes the point of an lead organiser paying the monthly subscription fee.

TechCrunch

So, many years ago, Theodore Lightner had the idea of a lead-directing slam double.

The New York Times

It's more of a lead-gen type deal.

TechCrunch

Oh, and its lifespan (7 years) is about twice that of a lead-acid battery (3-4 years).

TechCrunch

Nevertheless, the high content of lead seems to confirm the use of a lead-based yellow, perhaps the massicot lead oxide (PbO) previously resulted by the Raman spectroscopy.

Heritage Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "of a lead" to describe a competitive advantage, ensure the context clearly establishes what the lead is in relation to. For example, clarify whether it's a lead in time, market share, or some other quantifiable metric.

Common error

Avoid using "of a lead" when a more specific term like "advantage", "edge", or "head start" would provide greater clarity. Overuse can make your writing vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of a lead" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun. It indicates the nature, extent, or characteristic of a preceding noun, such as in 'how much "of a lead" you have'. According to Ludwig, this phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

29%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "of a lead" is a versatile prepositional phrase frequently used to describe the nature or extent of an advantage or guiding information. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts, primarily in news, media, and scientific publications. When incorporating "of a lead" into your writing, ensure clarity regarding what the lead relates to, and consider more specific alternatives if greater precision is needed. While the phrase is generally acceptable, nuanced alternatives may, at times, enhance overall clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pertaining to a head start

Emphasizes the initial advantage or progress in a competition or task.

regarding an advantage

Shifts the focus to the competitive edge or head start implied in the phrase.

regarding a frontrunner

Highlights the element of competition and being ahead in a race or contest.

concerning a leader

Focuses on the leadership aspect rather than the element of guidance or advantage.

related to a forerunner

Focuses on preceding events or individuals, emphasizing historical context.

about a clue

Emphasizes the aspect of information or hint that directs further action.

in relation to a guide

Highlights the guiding aspect, suitable when referring to directives or mentorship.

with respect to a pioneer

Focuses on innovative or groundbreaking aspects, suitable for new ventures.

in connection with a supervisor

Emphasizes the role of oversight and direction from a guiding figure.

concerning a principal

Shifts the focus to the main or primary aspect of something.

FAQs

How can I use "of a lead" in a sentence?

You can use "of a lead" to describe having an advantage, or following a guiding piece of information. Examples include: "They have quite a bit of a lead in the polls", or "This finding is more in the nature of a lead".

What does "of a lead" mean in a business context?

In business, "of a lead" often refers to a prospective customer or a piece of information that could result in a sale. It represents an opportunity that needs to be pursued. See how "lead generation" is employed in marketing.

Is it better to say "a lead" or "of a lead"?

Whether to use "a lead" or "of a lead" depends on the context. "A lead" can refer to a guiding piece of information or a head start. "Of a lead" typically describes the nature or extent of that advantage or guidance, indicating something 'is of the nature of a lead'.

What can I say instead of "of a lead"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "regarding an advantage", "concerning a leader", or "about a clue" to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.