What Is Another Way to Say “To Lead”?

Looking for synonyms for to lead? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say to lead.

  • Guide
  • Direct
  • Head
  • Command
  • Captain
  • Steer
  • Govern
  • Pilot
  • Supervise
  • Manage
  • Chair
  • Preside over
  • Spearhead
  • Conduct
  • Control

Want to learn how to say to lead professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Guide

Appropriate Use: To show or indicate the way; often used in a mentoring or advisory capacity.
Example: She will guide the new employees through their orientation and training process.

2. Direct

Appropriate Use: To manage or govern the course of action; often used in the context of projects or specific tasks.
Example: He was chosen to direct the development of the new software program.

Appropriate Use: To lead or be in charge of an organization or group.
Example: She heads the marketing department and is responsible for all its activities.

4. Command

Appropriate Use: To have authority and responsibility, especially in a military or corporate context.
Example: The CEO commands the entire corporation with a focus on ethical leadership.

5. Captain

Appropriate Use: To lead a team, especially in sports, or metaphorically in other areas.
Example: He was appointed to captain the project team for the upcoming international venture.

6. Steer

Appropriate Use: To guide the course; often used in the context of strategy and direction.
Example: Her role in the company is to steer the strategic planning committee.

7. Govern

Appropriate Use: To exercise authority or control; often used in the context of administrative leadership.
Example: As the new governor, she will govern the state with a focus on reforming education.

8. Pilot

Appropriate Use: To lead or initiate a project or program (often a trial or experimental phase).
Example: He is piloting a new initiative aimed at reducing the company’s carbon footprint.

9. Supervise

Appropriate Use: To oversee and direct activities and tasks.
Example: She supervises a team of consultants working on various client projects.

10. Manage

Appropriate Use: To be responsible for controlling or administering a group, organization, or endeavor.
Example: He manages the day-to-day operations of the sales department.

11. Chair

Appropriate Use: To act as the head of a committee, meeting, or board.
Example: She will chair the annual general meeting next month.

12. Preside over

Appropriate Use: To hold the position of authority in a meeting or gathering.
Example: The director will preside over the negotiation talks with the union.

13. Spearhead

Appropriate Use: To lead an initiative, campaign, or movement.
Example: He spearheaded the campaign for digital transformation in the organization.

14. Conduct

Appropriate Use: To lead or guide a group in doing something.
Example: The conductor will conduct the orchestra in tonight’s concert.

15. Control

Appropriate Use: To exercise authoritative or dominating influence over; manage.
Example: Her ability to control complex projects effectively makes her an asset to the team.

Linda Brown