a circuitous path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a circuitous path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a route or method that is indirect or roundabout, often implying a longer or more complicated way to reach a destination or goal. Example: "After taking a circuitous path through the forest, we finally arrived at the campsite."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Venter took a circuitous path to science.

The New York Times - Books

His character achieves a redemption, albeit through a circuitous path.

The New York Times

Tarwater, 28, took a circuitous path to the Olympic starting blocks.

The New York Times

He never took the SAT exam, ensuring a circuitous path to the NFL.

The Washington Post

He walks with a hanged head and takes a circuitous path when people come around.

The New York Times

But it's also not surprising, given her independent-mindedness, that she took a circuitous path to get to this point.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Electrons still follow a long, circuitous path, ensuring that they face a high electrical resistance, and thus heat up the metal so it will glow.

Science Magazine

Mr. Greene's career took a similarly circuitous path.

The New York Times

Romney's position on the law had taken a typically circuitous path littered with vague comments.

The New Yorker

Unlike the new breed of baby-faced social media editors, Ms. Licht took a more circuitous path to Twitter stardom.

The New York Times

University Medal finalist Deann Del Rio, however, decided to become pre-med only in her last year of college and after a very circuitous path.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a circuitous path" when you want to emphasize that a process, journey, or method is not direct or straightforward, but rather involves twists, turns, or detours. This can add depth and nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a circuitous path" when a simple, short detour is meant. "A circuitous path" implies a significant deviation or complexity, not just a minor change of course.

Linguistic Context

A circuitous path functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes the nature of a route, journey, or process, indicating that it is indirect and winding. As seen in the Ludwig examples, it is used to describe careers, investigations, or even the movement of electrons.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

15%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a circuitous path" is a versatile phrase used to describe indirect or roundabout routes, processes, or journeys. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general discourse. When using this phrase, ensure that it accurately reflects the complexity and indirection you wish to convey, distinguishing it from a simple detour. It appears most frequently in news and media sources, indicating its broad applicability in describing various events and developments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a roundabout route

Emphasizes the indirectness of the route, focusing on the physical aspect of deviation.

an indirect approach

Highlights the lack of straightforwardness in the method or strategy used.

a meandering course

Stresses the winding and often unpredictable nature of the progression.

a tortuous journey

Focuses on the complexity and potential difficulty involved in the process.

a devious route

Suggests a cunning or strategic indirection, often implying hidden motives.

a labyrinthine process

Draws attention to the intricate and confusing nature of the steps involved.

a winding road

Conveys a sense of indirection and potential scenic detours along the way.

an intricate path

Emphasizes the complexity and detailed nature of the steps or route taken.

a rambling course

Highlights the lack of a clear or direct direction, suggesting aimless wandering.

a twisting route

Focuses on the physical act of deviating or turning away from a direct direction.

FAQs

How can I use "a circuitous path" in a sentence?

You can use "a circuitous path" to describe an indirect route, process, or journey. For example, "He took "a circuitous path" to success, facing many obstacles along the way".

What are some alternatives to "a circuitous path"?

Alternatives include "a roundabout route", "an indirect approach", or "a meandering course". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a circuitous path" or "an indirect route"?

Both "a circuitous path" and "an indirect route" are correct, but "a circuitous path" often implies a more complex or winding route than a simple indirectness. Consider the nuance you wish to convey.

What does "a circuitous path" imply about a person's journey?

"A circuitous path" suggests that the person's journey was not direct or straightforward, possibly involving unexpected challenges, detours, or changes of direction.