PhrasesHub

Take the lead

    Definitions

      • be in a leadership position
        To assume control or responsibility for a group, situation, or task, often by being the first to take action or make decisions

      • be the first or most prominent
        To be at the forefront or in the most prominent position in a particular area or field, often due to one's expertise, experience, or skills

      • initiate or start
        To be the first to start or initiate something, setting an example for others to follow

    Examples of Take the lead

    • John took the lead in the group project by outlining a clear strategy and assigning tasks to each team member.

      To "take the lead" in a situation means to take charge and become the person who guides or directs others. In this example, John took control of the group project by proposing a plan of action and delegating responsibilities to his team members.

    • Sarah's expertise in sales allowed her to take the lead in the company's marketing efforts, resulting in a significant increase in revenue.

      In this scenario, "take the lead" refers to Sarah assuming a position of authority in the company's marketing initiatives. Her proficiency in sales enabled her to steer the company's marketing efforts and generate improved financial outcomes.

    • As the captain of the football team, Michael took the lead during practice sessions by demonstrating the right techniques and encouraging his teammates to follow suit.

      "Take the lead" can also refer to a person setting an example for others to follow. In this case, Michael showed his team how to perform football drills correctly and inspired them to do the same.

    • Despite the challenges they faced, the CEO remained steadfast and took the lead in guiding the company through a difficult time.

      This example highlights the leadership qualities required to "take the lead" when faced with adversity. The CEO showed courage and resilience to steer the company through a tough period.

    • The sales manager urged her team to take the lead in closing the deal.

      In this example, "take the lead" is used as a command or instruction to the sales team. It means that the manager is encouraging her team to be proactive and take a prominent role in closing the deal.

    • The CEO announced that the marketing department will be taking the lead on the new product launch.

      In this example, "take the lead" is used to indicate that the marketing department will be responsible for overseeing and managing the launch of the new product. It implies that the marketing team will be in charge and will guide the process forward.

    • The athlete confidently took the lead in the final lap of the race.

      In this example, "take the lead" is used to describe the athlete's action in the race. It means that the athlete moved into first place during the final lap of the race, thereby gaining an advantage and pulling ahead of the other competitors.

    • The president's proposals have been met with resistance, but he's determined to take the lead and push them through.

      In this example, "take the lead" is used to convey the president's assertiveness and persistence. It means that despite opposition, the president is committed to driving his proposals forward and taking charge of the situation.


    Conclusion

    "Take the lead" can be used in various contexts to describe being in a leadership position or taking charge of a situation. It can also refer to being at the forefront or being the first or most prominent in a certain area or field. Additionally, it can be used to describe initiating or starting something.

    Origin of "Take the lead"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the world of horse racing. In a horse race, the lead horse is the one in front and setting the pace for the others. This idea of being in front and leading the way has translated into the figurative use of "take the lead" to describe being in a leadership position or taking charge.

    Another possible origin could be from the military, where the phrase was used to describe the first person or group to enter a battle or engage the enemy. This would also tie in with the idea of being at the forefront or taking the first action.

    Over time, the idiom has evolved to encompass a wider range of meanings beyond just leadership and military contexts. It is now commonly used in everyday language to describe taking the initiative or being the first to do something.

    In conclusion, "take the lead" is a versatile idiom that can be used to describe being in a leadership position, being at the forefront, or taking the first action. Its origins can be traced back to horse racing or the military, but it has since become a widely used phrase in various contexts.