lead off in WordNet English dictionary

1. set in motion, cause to start
   "The U.S. started a war in the Middle East"; "The Iraqis began hostilities"; "begin a new chapter in your life"
   begin  lead off  start  commence 
   
2. teach immoral behavior to
   "It was common practice to lead off the young ones, and teach them bad habits"
   lead off  lead astray