What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
foremost
Example
The safety of our employees is our foremost priority. [foremost: adjective]
Example
She is one of the foremost experts in the field of neuroscience. [foremost: adjective]
Example
The foremost reason for the company's success is its dedicated employees. [foremost: noun]
leading
Example
The leading candidate in the election is currently ahead in the polls. [leading: adjective]
Example
The company is a leading provider of innovative technology solutions. [leading: adjective]
Example
She is a leading voice in the fight for social justice. [leading: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Leading is more commonly used than foremost in everyday language. Leading is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while foremost is less common and tends to be used in more formal or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between foremost and leading?
While both foremost and leading can be used in formal contexts, foremost is generally considered more formal and specialized than leading, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
