The phrase "leads by the nose" is spelled with three commonly used letters in English: l, e, and a. The pronunciation of the word "leads" is transcribed in IPA as /liːdz/. The consonant cluster "ds" at the end of the word is pronounced as a voiced ‘z’ sound. The word "nose" is pronounced as /noʊz/ with a long ‘o’ and a voiced ‘z’ sound at the end. The phrase means to control someone through manipulation or nudging.
"Leads by the nose" is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe the act of exerting control or influence over someone, typically to the point where they are completely dominated, manipulated, or blindly followed. It refers to a situation where a person leads or guides someone else by holding them metaphorically by the nose, thereby controlling their actions, decisions, or behavior.
This expression suggests that the individual being led, or "led by the nose," lacks independence, critical thinking, or the ability to make their own choices. They are easily swayed or controlled by another person who has a strong influence or power over them.
"Leads by the nose" can be applied to various scenarios, such as a leader or authority figure who exercises undue influence over their subordinates, a manipulative person who dominates a romantic partner by controlling their every move, or a persuasive speaker who captivates an audience and manipulates their opinions or actions.
The phrase carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of personal agency or free will for the person being led. It suggests a subservient relationship where the individual is passively controlled, led, or manipulated without question or resistance.