lead-in
C1Formal, Semi-formal, Technical
Definition
Meaning
An opening segment or introductory part of something, designed to introduce the main topic, performance, or event.
A transitional segment of text, speech, music, or wiring that connects a source to a primary system or subject. In broadcasting, the segment introducing a programme; in electrical contexts, the wire connecting an aerial to a receiver; in discourse, the remarks that set the stage for the main topic.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used as a countable noun. In technical domains, it can denote a physical connector.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is largely identical. Spelling is always hyphenated. Electrical usage is slightly more common in UK technical manuals.
Connotations
Neutral to professional. No major difference in connotation.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in UK media/broadcasting contexts; equally common in academic/business writing in both variants.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
provide [DET] lead-in to [TOPIC]serve as a lead-in for [TOPIC][TOPIC] was preceded by a [ADJ] lead-inVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly associated; functions as a technical collocation itself.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
"The manager's presentation provided an excellent lead-in to the quarterly financial discussion."
Academic
"The chapter's lead-in effectively frames the central research question."
Everyday
"Her funny anecdote was a great lead-in to the main story."
Technical
"Ensure the coaxial lead-in from the satellite dish is properly shielded."
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Not applicable as a verb.
American English
- Not applicable as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
American English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable as a standalone adjective.
American English
- Not applicable as a standalone adjective.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The teacher gave a short lead-in before the lesson.
- He told a joke as a lead-in to his speech.
- The documentary's lead-in featured dramatic music and archival footage.
- The report's lead-in deftly contextualised the complex statistical data that followed.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a LEADER walking IN first to introduce the main group. The LEAD-IN comes first to introduce the main event.
Conceptual Metaphor
INTRODUCTION IS A PATH (It sets you on the path to the main topic).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with the metal 'lead' (свинец).
- Avoid translating as 'вести в' (to lead into) as a verb phrase; it is a fixed noun.
- Not directly equivalent to 'введение', which is broader; 'lead-in' is more specific to a connecting segment.
Common Mistakes
- Misspelling as 'led-in' (past tense confusion).
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'He will lead-in the topic' – incorrect).
- Omitting the hyphen, creating ambiguity with the verb 'lead'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'lead-in' LEAST likely to be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'lead-in' is exclusively a noun. The verb form is the phrasal verb 'lead in' (without a hyphen), as in 'He will lead in with a question'.
An 'introduction' is a broader, more comprehensive opening. A 'lead-in' is typically a shorter, more transitional segment specifically designed to connect directly and smoothly to the main content.
It is pronounced /ˈliːd ɪn/, with stress on the first syllable. The first part rhymes with 'need', not the metal 'lead' (led).
Yes, though it is more common in prepared or semi-formal speech (e.g., presentations, speeches, broadcasts). In casual talk, people might simply say 'introduction' or 'opening'.
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