SINCE 1828
take the lead
idiomDefinition of take the lead
1
: to take a position that is ahead of others : go first
You take the lead and we'll follow right behind you.
2
: to take the winning position in a race or competition
Her car has taken the lead. Our team took the lead in the eighth inning.
—often used figuratively Their company has taken the lead in developing this new technology.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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