1
general::
Phrase(s): lead someone on
1. to guide someone onward. • We led him on so he could see more of the gardens. • Please lead Mary on. There is lots more to see here. 2. and lead someone on to tease someone; to encourage someone’s romantic or sexual interest without sincerity. • You are just leading me on! • It’s not fair to continue leading him on. • It’s easy to lead on teenage boys., Phrase(s): lead on
to continue to lead onward. • The guide led on and we followed. • Lead on, my friend. We are right behind you!
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Entice someone into proceeding, mislead; also, deceive someone, especially pretending romantic interest. For example, He's leading her on to reveal more of her family history, or She's just leading him on; she has a serious boyfriend at home. [Late 1500s]
American Heritage Idioms