taking the lead

USAGE SUMMARY

"taking the lead" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an individual or group taking responsibility for a particular situation. For example, "The CEO is taking the lead on the project and will make sure everything is done correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The industry itself is taking the lead.

The Economist

Other exchanges are taking the lead.

The Economist

Taking the lead among the Water Boys?

Independent

"New Orleans was taking the lead.

The New York Times

Here, the Tories are taking the lead.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Her taking the lead caught my attention," he added.

The New York Times

Instead, state governors are taking the lead (see article).

The Economist

Taking the lead: I was not a shy child.

The New York Times

"This is Dawn taking the lead," the executive said.

The New York Times

"Eliot was aggressive in taking the lead," Mr. Cuomo said.

The New York Times

Leko won, taking the lead in the match.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a scenario in a competitive environment, using "taking the lead" can effectively communicate gaining an advantage or surpassing competitors.

Common error

Avoid using "taking the lead" when simply participating in a group effort without actively influencing its direction or outcome. It's important that it is about taking charge, not just participating.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking the lead" functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the act of initiating, guiding, or controlling an action or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "taking the lead" is a common and correct way to describe initiating or directing an action or situation. Ludwig AI confirms this, highlighting its versatility across various contexts, including News & Media and Scientific domains. While alternatives like "taking the initiative" or "assuming control" exist, the original phrase effectively conveys the idea of proactive guidance and influence. The best practice is to use it to emphasize a proactive role, while a common mistake is to overgeneralize its use to simple participation without active influence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking the initiative

This alternative emphasizes the act of being the first to act or take control.

assuming control

This alternative focuses on gaining or possessing power and authority.

taking charge

This suggests actively managing and directing a situation or group.

spearheading

This alternative conveys the idea of being at the forefront of an effort or movement.

being in the vanguard

Implies being at the front and leading progress or change.

being at the helm

This suggests directing and guiding a process or organization.

setting the pace

This focuses on establishing the rate or standard for others to follow.

being the forerunner

This indicates being the first to do something or achieve a goal.

guiding the way

This highlights the act of showing direction and influencing progress.

piloting the project

This metaphor suggests directing and controlling the course of an activity or plan.

FAQs

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

You can use "taking the lead" to describe someone or something initiating action or directing a project. For example, "The company is "taking the lead" in developing sustainable energy solutions."

What are some alternatives to "taking the lead"?

Alternatives include "taking the initiative", "assuming control", or "taking charge". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "take the lead" instead of "taking the lead"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they have different uses. "Take the lead" is an imperative, suggesting someone should initiate action. "Taking the lead" describes someone who is already in that role.

What's the difference between "taking the lead" and "following the lead"?

"Taking the lead" means initiating action and directing others, while "following the lead" means adhering to the direction or example set by someone else.