lead or live your life?

[LeTyan]

Hi,

I notice that sometimes people say "lead a xxx life", some other time they say "live a xxx life". Is there a rule for that?

For example, is it "lead" or "live" a disiplined/healthy life?

Thank you!

 

[probus]

They are very close in meaning. I think "lead one's life" leans more towards following moral or other precepts laid down by others, as in "lead a virtuous life", while "live one's life" leans more towards following one's own inclinations.

 

[LeTyan]

They are very close in meaning. I think "lead one's life" leans more towards following moral or other precepts laid down by others, as in "lead a virtuous life", while "live one's life" leans more towards following one's own inclinations.

So is it both OK to say "lead/live a disiplined life"?

 

[probus]

Yes. But I think the same difference in connotation applies. If you live a disciplined life, it is more likely that you have made the rules that the discipline is subject to. If you lead a disciplined life, it is more likely that you are following rules laid down by others.