Leading
adj.capable, energeticprofessional
What it means
Holding a notably important, advanced, or influential position.
Reach for it when describing a person or organization with credible standing in its field
A leading accessibility researcher reviewed the station design.
Choose between these
7- everyday
brief informal praise suits a clear high performer
not when Top can imply number one when the evidence only supports membership in a strong group.
- warm
earned regard is safer than a ranking claim
not when Respected is modest when measurable field leadership matters.
- professional
the subject shapes decisions or practice
not when Influential does not necessarily mean skilled, ethical, or advanced.
- professional
original work opened a new path
not when Pioneering concerns novelty, not present leadership in the field.
- professional
prominent
visibility and influence are more certain than rank
not when Prominent may reflect fame without excellence.
- formal
the subject has a defensible claim to the highest standing
not when Foremost is stronger than leading and needs exceptional evidence.
- literary
singular distinction is both intended and supportable
not when Preeminent is inflated for one of several respected contributors.
Said against
3- minor
- trailing
- obscure
It naturally appears in
3- leading expert
A leading expert translated the findings into practical guidance.
- leading role
Local nurses took a leading role in redesigning the clinic.
- leading provider
The cooperative became a leading provider of affordable insulation.
The word family
1Where this comes from
- merriam-webster, adjective sense 1 opens in a new tab · retrieved 2026-07-26
The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.