the lead group

USAGE SUMMARY

"the lead group" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to refer to the group that is in the forefront or leading in a particular context, such as a race or project. An example: "The lead group maintained a steady pace throughout the marathon." Alternative expressions include "the leading group" and "the front group."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was soon dropped from the lead group.

The Guardian - Sport

The lead group has just about pieced itself together again.

The Guardian - Sport

By then, the field had been blown apart, with just eight athletes in the lead group.

The New Yorker

In Kitzbuhel, six weeks ago: the Brownlees were in the lead group which was caught.

The Guardian - Sport

Sastre attacks in the lead group and Mayo latches on to his wheel.

The Guardian - Sport

Riblon also fades away and the lead group is already dismembered.

The Guardian - Sport

He faltered, dropped to the back of the lead group, and was soon out of sight.

The Guardian - Sport

It was the second group, rather than the lead group, so Team GB's hopes remain intact.

The Guardian - Sport

MDA levels were reduced in all groups compared to the lead group (p<0.01).

Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology

By the bell the lead group was down to five and Farah's kick came.

Independent

12.50pm BST With the lead group stretching their lead out to nearly two minutes, a trio are in pursuit.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the lead group", ensure the context clearly establishes what the group is leading in, whether it's a race, project, or initiative. For example, "the lead group in the marathon" or "the lead group on the marketing project".

Common error

Avoid using "the lead group" without specifying the context. Saying just "the lead group" can leave the reader wondering what the group is leading in. Always provide enough information to clarify the group's role and purpose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the lead group" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific collective entity that is at the forefront or in a position of dominance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The examples in the search results illustrate its use in various contexts, primarily in sports and organizational leadership.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the lead group" is a frequently used and grammatically sound noun phrase that refers to a group at the forefront of a particular activity. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to identify and distinguish a set of individuals or entities that are ahead of others. While commonly used in news and media, it also finds application in scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines what the group is leading in to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "the leading pack" or "the front runners" may be suitable depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the leading pack

Replaces "group" with "pack", often used in racing contexts to emphasize a close-knit cluster of competitors.

the breakaway group

Specifically refers to a group that has separated itself from the main body, particularly in cycling.

the front runners

Focuses on individual competitors who are ahead, rather than a collective.

the head of the field

Emphasizes position relative to all other participants, especially in sports.

the foremost contingent

A more formal way of describing the leading group.

the vanguard

Implies being at the very front, often used metaphorically to describe pioneering efforts.

the top contenders

Highlights individuals or teams most likely to win or succeed.

the point team

Emphasizes a group that is in the lead during a specific moment of a team competition.

the advance team

Suggests a group sent ahead for a specific purpose, such as scouting or preparation.

the primary cluster

Highlights a significant group, with focus on all the individuals that compose it and their interconnections.

FAQs

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

You can use "the lead group" to refer to a set of people, teams or entities that are in the forefront. For example: "The athlete dropped from "the lead group" after feeling tight".

What are some alternatives to "the lead group"?

Some alternatives include "the leading pack", "the front runners", or "the vanguard". The best alternative depends on the specific context.

Is "lead group" or "leading group" more appropriate?

Both "lead group" and "leading group" are acceptable. "Lead group" functions as a noun phrase, while "leading group" uses the present participle of "lead" as an adjective. Usage often depends on stylistic preference.

In what contexts is "the lead group" commonly used?

"The lead group" is frequently used in sports reporting, project management, and organizational leadership to describe the individuals or teams at the forefront of an activity or initiative.