What are the definitions of “lead to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Result in.
The investigation LED TO the arrest of a number of suspects.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “lead to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb lead to is to result in something or cause a particular situation or event to happen. It is often used to describe the consequences or outcomes of actions, decisions, or events.
What are the different verb forms of “lead to”?
| Root Verb | lead to |
| Third Person Singular Present | leads to |
| Present Participle | leading to |
| Simple Past | led to |
| Past Participle | led to |
Example
His hard work led to a promotion at his job.
Example
Eating too much junk food leads to health problems.
Example
The new evidence is leading to a breakthrough in the case.
Example
The storm led to flooding in the area.
Example
The discovery of the new species has led to further research in the field.
What kind of phrasal verb is “lead to”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“lead to” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The investigation led to the arrest of several suspects.
Example
Her dedication led to her success in the competition.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“lead to” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The investigation led to the arrest of several suspects.
Example
Her dedication led to her success in the competition.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “lead to”?
Lead to a conclusion
Result in a final decision or judgment.
Example
The evidence led to the conclusion that the suspect was innocent.
Good things to know
Does “lead to” have an informal or formal tone?
Lead to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic writing or professional discussions.
