Biesenblog

Riveting Insights on Communication, Storytelling and Presentation Skills

Grammar Friday: Lead or Led?

by | Writing/Editing

Grammar PeevesI don’t always post about grammar and usage. But when I do … it’s fascinating.

This is one of my latest peeves. And it’s more than just a nitpick. When people spell the past tense of the verb lead as lead it really trips up my reading.

And while we’re at it, the past tense of plead is pled.

I suppose it’s confusing since, for instance, the past tense of read isn’t red. Others suggest the confusion arises because led rhymes with the word for the metal lead.

So lead is not like read. It’s more like bleed and speed, which become bled and sped.

Welcome to the English language.

(My photo, taken on the beach at Puerto Vallarta.)

Let's Work Together

To find the right solution for you, Rob’s happy to talk through the options.

Virtual Presentation Checklist

Master Your Presentations

Join our mailing list to receive 5 Checklists to manage every detail of your next presentation.

You have Successfully Subscribed!