take the lead

USAGE SUMMARY

"take the lead" is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to mean to take on a leadership role or position, be the first or most important person or thing, or to gain an advantage or superiority over someone or something. For example: "After seeing the success of her first business venture, she was determined to take the lead in her next project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Who would take the lead?

The New York Times

Let me take the lead.

The New York Times

It must take the lead.

The New York Times

Arsenal take the lead.

The Guardian - Sport

They take the lead!

The Telegraph

"England could take the lead on this".

Independent

Who will take the lead?

The Guardian

The Giants take the lead!

The Guardian - Sport

She encourages them to take the lead.

Harvard University

GGSC ought to take the lead!

University of California, Berkeley

UC must take the lead today!

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take the lead" in a competitive context, ensure it's clear whether you mean literally moving into first place or figuratively assuming control.

Common error

Avoid using "take the lead" when a more specific verb like "manage", "direct", or "initiate" would provide greater clarity. The phrase is versatile but can be vague if not properly contextualized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take the lead" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It often acts as an infinitive, imperative, or part of a larger verb construction. Ludwig examples show its versatility across various sentence structures. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take the lead" is a versatile and commonly used idiom that signifies assuming control, moving into first place, or guiding others. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable phrase. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts ranging from news and media to academic discussions. While generally neutral in register, its precise meaning depends on the context. To avoid ambiguity, consider whether more specific verbs might be more appropriate. Related phrases such as "assume command" or "seize the initiative" offer alternative ways to express similar concepts. By understanding its nuances, writers can effectively use "take the lead" to convey leadership and initiative in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take charge

A simpler and more direct way of saying to assume control.

assume command

Emphasizes a more formal assumption of control or authority.

seize the initiative

Focuses on being the first to act or make decisions.

take the reins

Suggests assuming control, particularly in a managerial context.

step up to the plate

Highlights taking responsibility and facing a challenge.

be at the helm

Implies being in control and guiding a situation or organization.

be in the driver's seat

Emphasizes control and decision-making power.

spearhead the effort

Highlights being at the forefront of an endeavor.

guide the way

Focuses on providing direction and leadership.

set the pace

Focuses on establishing a standard or rate of progress.

FAQs

How can I use "take the lead" in a sentence?

You can use "take the lead" to describe someone assuming a leadership role, as in, "She decided to take the lead on the project". It can also mean to move into first place, as in, "Our team managed to take the lead in the final quarter".

What does it mean to "take the lead"?

To "take the lead" means to assume control or responsibility, or to move into a position of advantage or first place. It often implies guiding others or being the primary influence.

Which is correct, "take the lead" or "taking the lead"?

Both phrases are correct, but they function differently in sentences. "Take the lead" is often used as an imperative or infinitive, while "taking the lead" functions as a gerund or present participle. For example, "They need to "take the lead" now" versus "Taking the lead requires courage".

What can I say instead of "take the lead"?

You can use alternatives like "assume command", "seize the initiative", or "take charge" depending on the specific context.