lead-off
Noun - The act of starting something: "lead-off" refers to the beginning or initial action of an event, such as a conversation, dance, or activity. - In baseball: "lead-off" is the first batter in a lineup or the first at-bat of a game or inning.
Adjective - Initial or opening: "lead-off" describes something that serves as the first in a sequence, such as a lead-off question or lead-off speaker.
Noun:
- She took the lead-off in the discussion by asking the first question. (She began the conversation.)
- The lead-off hit a double in the first inning. (The first batter hit a double.)
Adjective:
- The lead-off speaker set the tone for the conference. (The opening speaker established the mood.)
- His lead-off remark was met with laughter. (His first comment was humorous.)
"to take the lead-off": to be the person who starts something.
- Who will take the lead-off in the dance tonight? (Who will begin the dancing?)
"lead-off hitter": a baseball term for the first batter in the lineup.
- The lead-off hitter is known for his speed and on-base percentage. (The first batter is fast and gets on base often.)
Lead-off (also written as leadoff): the same word, often used without a hyphen in some contexts.
- He was the leadoff batter for his team. (He batted first.)
Lead (verb): to guide or direct; related in meaning but not the same.
- She will lead the discussion. (She will guide the conversation.)
- Start: the beginning of an action.
- Opener: the first element in a series (e.g., an opener in a game or speech).
- Initiative: the first step in an activity.
"Lead off with": to begin something with a specific action or statement.
- He led off with a joke to lighten the mood. (He started with a joke.)
"Get the lead-off": to be given the opportunity to start.
- She got the lead-off in the project. (She was chosen to begin the project.)