Lede vs Lead

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What’s the difference between them?

Lede

Meaning:

Lede is an older form of the word 'lead,' meaning 'to guide or direct,' or 'the principal story in a newspaper or magazine article.'

Examples:

1. The lede of the article was particularly compelling.

2. The journalist was struggling to craft an effective lede for her story.

3. The lede was the most important part of the article.

Lead

Meaning:

to show the way by going in front; guide; direct.

Examples:

1. He took the lead in the project and it was a success.

2. She excels in leading her team to success.

3. The lead singer's performance was amazing.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Lede

1. Preface

2. Introduction

3. Lead-in

4. Foreword

5. Proem

1. Follow-up

2. Summary

3. Conclusion

4. Subordinate

5. Afterthought

Lead

1. Guide

2. Direct

3. Pilot

4. Show the way

5. Steer

1. Follow

2. Obstruct

3. Trail

4. Go astray

5. Miss the mark

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Lede", "Lead".

1. Remember that 'lede' is an older form of 'lead'

2. When in doubt, use 'lead'

3. Lead the way, bygone days use 'lede'

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

In what situations should the 'lede' be used?

Lede is an older form of the word lead, and it should typically only be used if one is intentionally trying to evoke a sense of nostalgiIt can be used in writing, such as in newspaper or magazine articles, or in speech, when one wants to be deliberately old-fashioned.

When is the appropriate context for using the word 'lead'?

Lead is the modern usage of the word, and should be used in almost all writing and speaking contexts. It is used to mean 'to guide or direct,' or 'the principal story in a newspaper or magazine article.'

Do the two words share the same pronunciation?

Yes, the two words share the same pronunciation. They are both pronounced as 'leed.'

What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?

One common mistake people make when using lede and lead is confusing them and using the wrong one in a given context. It is important to remember that lede is an older form of the word, and should only be used when intentionally trying to evoke an older feeling. Additionally, people may mispronounce the word as 'lee-d' instead of 'leed.'

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. The editor decided to use the story as the _______ of the special edition.

2. We need a _______ person to take charge of the project.

3. The _______ story of the paper is about a new health care initiative.

4. Please _______ the group to the meeting room.

5. The team needs somebody to take the _______.

6. She was chosen to _______ the discussion.

1. Lede

Explanation: This word is used to describe the introductory piece of a news article, that is typically more prominent than the other articles around it and serves as an attention-grabber.

2. Lead

Explanation: This word is used to describe the individual or group responsible for taking the initiative and leading a project or group of people.

3. Lead

Explanation: This word is used as a verb to describe the act of introducing a story in a prominent way, as the other articles will typically be of lesser importance.

4. Lead

Explanation: This word is used as a verb to describe the act of guiding a person or group from one place to another.

5. Lead

Explanation: This word is used to describe the individual or group responsible for taking the initiative and leading a project or group of people.

6. Lead

Explanation: This word is used to describe the individual or group responsible for taking the initiative and leading a discussion.

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List of Commonly Confused Words

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