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lead to

A2 neutral inseparable transitive

To cause or result in a particular outcome, or to take someone to a destination.

In plain English

Make something happen as a result, or take you somewhere.

What does "lead to" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 A2 neutral

To cause a particular event or situation to happen as a consequence.

"Poor communication often leads to misunderstandings between team members."

One thing always leads to another.

— Common English proverb; widely used in literature and speech
inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To go or take someone to a particular place or destination.

"The path through the forest leads to a beautiful lake."

inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To lead (take or direct) someone/something to (a destination or outcome).

Actually means

Make something happen as a result, or take you somewhere.

Usage tip

Extremely common in both spoken and written English across all registers. Used in causal explanations, directions, and logical arguments. Can refer to physical paths ('this road leads to the city') or abstract outcomes ('stress leads to health problems').

Words that pair with "lead to"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

problems success change conflict opportunity confusion

How to conjugate "lead to"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
lead to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
leads to
he/she/it
Past simple
led to
yesterday
Past participle
led to
have + pp
-ing form
leading to
continuous

Hear "lead to" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "lead to" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.