a clear path forward

USAGE SUMMARY

'a clear path forward' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a course of action or plan that is straightforward and easily understood. For example, "We discussed the issue in detail and identified a clear path forward to resolve the issue swiftly and efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The New York Times

Meetings to negotiate bills or policy end without a clear path forward, they said.

The New York Times

"There is a clear path forward for legally sustainable charges," he said.

The New York Times

But he made clear that Democrats did not see a clear path forward.

The New York Times - Health

And for a country as deep in crisis as Mexico, they offer a clear path forward.

The New York Times

But if you pick an emerging trend, you often have a clear path forward.

The Guardian

Today, Fleming doesn't have a permanent place to live, a job or a clear path forward.

The Guardian

The best leaders are honest about how they feel while simultaneously presenting a clear path forward.

Harvard Business Review

And he provides a clear path forward for helping us connect better with others.

Harvard Business Review

With the loss of the gun vote, by contrast, the president does not have a clear path forward.

The New York Times

This G-theory framework and the worked examples provide a clear path forward for pharmacy educators to consider when developing learning assessments.

Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clear path forward" when you want to convey not just progress, but also the ease and clarity with which that progress can be achieved.

Common error

Avoid using "a clear path forward" when the situation is still uncertain or lacks concrete steps. Overusing this phrase in ambiguous scenarios can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clear path forward" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves as a subject complement or an object, describing a plan, strategy, or direction. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clear path forward" is a noun phrase that indicates a well-defined and easily understood course of action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in written English. It is commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure the context provides some details about the specific path to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "a well-defined strategy" or "a straightforward approach" can be used depending on the context. Avoid using it when the situation lacks clarity to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clear course of action

Similar to the original, but emphasizes the "action" aspect.

a well-defined strategy

Focuses on the strategic aspect, implying a detailed plan is in place.

a definite course of action

Emphasizes the decisiveness and certainty of the plan.

a sure way forward

Emphasizes the certainty and reliability of the approach.

a straightforward approach

Highlights the simplicity and directness of the method.

a direct route

Highlights the absence of detours or complications.

a strategic roadmap

Uses the metaphor of a roadmap, suggesting a detailed and planned route.

an unambiguous route

Focuses on the lack of ambiguity in the direction.

a defined trajectory

Suggests a predetermined direction or course.

a decisive plan

Stresses the firm and resolute nature of the plan.

FAQs

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

You can use "a clear path forward" to indicate that a solution or plan is well-defined and easy to understand. For example: "After the meeting, we had "a clear path forward" for the project."

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

Alternatives include "a well-defined strategy", "a straightforward approach", or "a definite course of action", depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to specify the "clear path forward"?

While not always mandatory, briefly indicating what the path entails enhances clarity. For instance, instead of just stating "We have "a clear path forward"", you might add "…by implementing these key changes".

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a clear path forward"?

It's inappropriate to use the phrase when the situation is still ambiguous or lacks concrete steps. Using it in such scenarios can be misleading and diminish your credibility.