gain the lead

phrase

: to take the winning position in a race or competition
Her car has gained the lead.
Our team gained the lead in the eighth inning.
often used figuratively
Their company has gained the lead in developing this new technology.

Examples of gain the lead in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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New Zealand once again rallied and produced a superb try by backrower Peter Lakai to gain the lead for the first time at 12-10. ABC News, 4 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Gain the lead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gain%20the%20lead. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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