a clear path

USAGE SUMMARY

"a clear path" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to express a figurative process or journey that needs to be taken or achieved in order to reach a goal. For example, "The only way for me to reach my professional goals is to stay focused and take a clear path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The country has a clear path ahead.

The Economist

He defended a clear path for all.

The New York Times

We have a clear path laid out".

The New York Times - Sports

But Mr. Romney did not define a clear path forward.

The New York Times

Clijsters appears to have a clear path to the quarterfinals.

The New York Times - Sports

"On a roof, there's a clear path," Mr. Bottiglieri said.

The New York Times

"Then, there was a clear path," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

But if there is a wait, Apollo has a clear path out of the deal.

The New York Times

Because when it's a clear path, the dunk's euphoric shock is preceded by a gripping buildup.

The New York Times

It's just not a clear path, because of the vagueness of the statute".

The New York Times

The agreement, he said, establishes a clear path toward strengthening the Police Department.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex situation, use "a clear path" to suggest a simplified or streamlined approach.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear path" when the situation is inherently complex or uncertain. In such cases, it might be more accurate to acknowledge the challenges and potential obstacles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear path" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object within a sentence. It describes a method, plan, or route that is straightforward and easily navigable, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a clear path" is a common and versatile noun phrase used to describe a straightforward and easily navigable route or plan. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, including news, science, and business. When using "a clear path", it's important to ensure the situation genuinely warrants the implication of simplicity and directness. Alternatives such as "a direct route" or "a straightforward approach" can be considered depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a direct route

Focuses on the physical or metaphorical straightness of the path.

a straightforward plan

Emphasizes the simplicity and lack of complications in a proposed course of action.

an unobstructed way

Highlights the absence of obstacles or hindrances.

a definite course

Implies a specific and well-determined direction.

a sure method

Focuses on the reliability and effectiveness of a particular approach.

a guaranteed solution

Emphasizes the certainty of achieving a desired outcome.

a clear strategy

Highlights the explicitness and well-defined nature of the strategic approach.

an obvious route

Focuses on how easily the road to reach your goal can be found.

a trouble-free journey

Emphasizes the lack of problems that may arise.

a seamless process

Highlights the absence of interruptions or difficulties throughout the procedure.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clear path" to describe a direct and easy way to achieve something, such as "The new strategy provides "a clear path" to success".

What is the difference between "a clear path" and "a straightforward approach"?

"A clear path" emphasizes the ease of navigation and lack of obstacles, while "a straightforward approach" focuses on the simplicity and directness of the method itself.

What are some alternatives to using "a clear path"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a direct route", "a definite course", or "an unobstructed way".

In what situations is it best to use the phrase "a clear path"?

It is best used when describing situations where the route to a goal is well-defined, easily understood, and relatively free of obstacles.