Meaning and Usage
"リード" is a loanword from English meaning "lead" or "to lead." It is commonly used in contexts such as sports, projects, and social situations to indicate taking the initiative or being ahead.
Common Contexts
- Sports: Leading in a game or match.
- Work: Leading a project or team.
- Social: Taking the lead in conversations or dates.
Collocations and Patterns
- リードする: to lead or take the lead.
- リードしている: currently leading.
- リードを保つ: to maintain the lead.
Register and Nuance
This word is casual to neutral and often used in spoken Japanese, especially in business and everyday conversation. It carries a sense of initiative and control.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "リード" with "リード線" (lead wire) or "鉛" (lead metal). Context usually clarifies meaning, but be aware of these homophones.