show the way
Lead someone forward
To show the way is to guide someone toward a destination or goal, either literally by leading them there or figuratively by demonstrating how something should be done.
A trailblazer shows the way for those who follow: She showed the way for women in the industry.
The phrase implies going first so others can follow.
Leader or instruction book
- leadDense metal, symbol Pb
- directUndeviating or to guide
- mentorTrusted wisdom-giving advisor
- coachOne who instructs
teach · advise · counsel · instruct · navigate · shepherd · usher · steer
First to forge ahead
- pioneerEarly explorer or settler
- pathfinderOne who discovers routes
- forerunnerOne that comes before
- innovatorCreator of new methods
groundbreaker · trendsetter · vanguard · pacesetter · torchbearer · first mover · early adopter · visionary
guide
Leader or instruction book
coach · teach · advise · counsel · instruct · navigate · shepherd · usher · steer · orient
trailblazer
First to forge ahead
- pioneerEarly explorer or settler
- pathfinderOne who discovers routes
- forerunnerOne that comes before
innovator · groundbreaker · trendsetter · vanguard · pacesetter · torchbearer · first mover · early adopter · visionary · maverick
signpost
Roadside directional guide
- landmarkNotable point of reference
- compassDevice showing cardinal directions
- mapSpatial representation of terrain
route · direction · bearing · waypoint · marker · GPS · trail marker · beacon · guidepost · pointer
inspire
Stir to action
uplift · spark · ignite · galvanize · enthuse · stimulate · energize · rally · rouse · animate
show the wayabandon
Leave behind permanently
leave in the lurch · desert · forsake · turn one's back on · leave high and dry
show the waymislead
Cause false belief
lead astray · misdirect · deceive · lead down the garden path · confuse
show the wayfollow
Go behind another
follow the leader · bring up the rear · tag along · trail behind · come after