Lead off Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɫɛd/, /ˈɫid/ /ˈɔf

LED-awf, LEED-awf

UK

lɛd/ /ˈɒf

LED-of

Definition

To begin something, especially a meeting, event, or discussion, or to be the first to act or speak. It can also mean to start an activity or sequence.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly used in American English, especially for starting meetings, events, or discussions. Also common in sports like baseball ('lead-off hitter'). In formal situations, use 'begin' or 'start'. Don't confuse with 'lead' as in leadership or 'off' as in turning something off.

• Spanish: empezar - iniciar - abrir (evento)
• Portuguese (BR): começar - iniciar - abrir (evento)
• Portuguese (PT): começar - iniciar - abrir (evento)
• Chinese (Simplified): 开始 - 带头做（会议、活动等）
• Chinese (Traditional): 開始 - 帶頭做（會議、活動等）
• Hindi: शुरुआत करना - आरंभ करना
• Arabic: يبدأ - يفتتح (الحدث)
• Bengali: শুরু করা - শুরু করে দেয়া
• Russian: начать - открыть (мероприятие, обсуждение)
• Japanese: 始める - 先頭を切る
• Vietnamese: mở đầu - bắt đầu
• Korean: 시작하다 - 맨 먼저 하다
• Turkish: başlamak - açılışı yapmak
• Urdu: آغاز کرنا - شروعات کرنا
• Indonesian: mở đầu - bắt đầu

Example Sentences

I'll lead off the meeting with the main points.

basic

She will lead off the show with her song.

basic

Who wants to lead off the discussion?

basic

I'd like to lead off by thanking everyone for coming.

natural

The coach asked John to lead off in batting.

natural

Can you lead off with your ideas before we go deeper?

natural