Grammar

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Hi,1)I know that the standard expression is 'take the lead on something', but I came across 'take a lead' in an article and it was used the same way. Is it also correct?2)"Every season there's a new cast."Shouldn't it be 'new cast'?3) In British English 'maths' and not 'math' is used. Does this rule apply to 'run the math on (do the numbers on) something' and 'do the math'?Thank you.

CalifJim · Accepted Answer

Ann2251)I know that the standard expression is 'take the lead on something', but I came across 'take a lead' in an article and it was used the same way. Is it also correct?

"take a lead" is used almost exclusively in writing about sports events.

Gonzaga's bench cheers as the Bulldogs take a lead against Louisville on Saturday.
They are now 10-0 in the playoffs when they take a lead into the third period.
Another thing that SLU did on Wednesday was take a lead and run with it.

However, you find it occasionally in other contexts:

Mr Meles wants China to take a lead in building a new railway network.
DuPage County is in a position to take a lead on ethics and transparency reforms.
The trade unions, backed by effective community organisation, can take a lead in doing so.

For every use of "take a lead" there are probably 20–30 uses of "take the lead".

CJ

CalifJim · Answer

Ann2252)"Every season there's a new cast."Shouldn't it be 'new cast'?

No. It's "a new cast".

cast: The actors in a play, movie, or other theatrical presentation.

The series will feature a new cast of puppet characters and two celebrity guests.

CJ

You'll need to wait for someone British to answer your last question.

CJ

Anonymous · Answer

Ann225I know that the standard expression is 'take the lead on something', but I came across 'take a lead' in an article and it was used the same way. Is it also correct?

In the meaning "assume leadership", "a" lead is wrong.

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