a dangerous path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dangerous path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a course of action or decision that poses significant risks or negative consequences. Example: "Choosing to ignore the warning signs could lead you down a dangerous path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"That was a dangerous path".

The New York Times

But it is a dangerous path to follow.

The Economist

"I think that's a dangerous path to go down.

The New York Times - Sports

"That would be a dangerous path to take".

The New York Times

Upping the fees is a dangerous path to go down.

The Guardian

That approach will lead us down a dangerous path.

The New York Times

"That is such a dangerous path to go down," he said.

The New York Times

"It's a dangerous path," Mr. Ryan said, describing Mr. Obama's policies.

The New York Times

But to conclude privacy causes bullying, as Goodman does, is to tread a dangerous path.

The Guardian - Opinion

I repeated my conviction that Iran was taking the international community on a dangerous path.

The New York Times

You're on a dangerous path and you need to make a change".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a dangerous path", ensure the context clearly defines the nature and potential consequences of the danger involved. Specificity enhances the impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a dangerous path" when the situation presents only minor risks or inconveniences. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dangerous path" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a subject complement or an object in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable in English. It describes something with a high probability of incurring loss or harm.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a dangerous path" is a versatile and frequently used expression to describe a course of action or situation fraught with risk. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically sound and commonly employed across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. When using "a dangerous path", clarity and specificity are key to convey the nature and potential consequences of the danger involved.

Alternatives like "a perilous course" or "a risky venture" can add nuance, but it's important to avoid exaggeration. The phrase is appropriate for formal writing, maintaining a neutral tone, and its widespread use underscores its relevance in warning, cautioning, or expressing concern. Ludwig's analysis further confirms the phrase's solid grammatical standing and frequent appearance in credible sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a perilous course

Replaces "path" with "course", emphasizing the direction or route taken; "perilous" is a synonym of "dangerous".

a risky venture

Substitutes "path" with "venture", focusing on the undertaking or endeavor, and "dangerous" with "risky", highlighting potential negative outcomes.

a treacherous route

Replaces "path" with "route", specifying a way or course, while "treacherous" suggests hidden dangers and difficulties.

a hazardous undertaking

Changes "path" to "undertaking", emphasizing the task or project, and uses "hazardous" as a synonym for "dangerous", indicating potential harm.

a precarious situation

Shifts the focus from a course of action to an overall state or condition, using "precarious" to denote instability and risk.

a compromising position

Highlights a situation that could damage one's reputation or security; less about physical danger, more about vulnerability.

a slippery slope

Implies a gradual decline or descent into negative consequences, often irreversible once started.

a road fraught with peril

Uses a more figurative and dramatic expression, emphasizing that the road/path is filled with dangers.

a questionable decision

Focuses on the judgment made, suggesting it may lead to negative outcomes or is not well-considered.

a self-destructive pattern

Highlights repeated behavior that leads to negative consequences, emphasizing internal agency and harm.

FAQs

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

You can use "a dangerous path" to describe a course of action, decision, or situation that is likely to lead to negative or harmful consequences. For example, "Ignoring safety regulations is "a dangerous path" that could result in serious accidents."

What are some alternatives to "a dangerous path"?

Alternatives include "a perilous course", "a risky venture", or "a treacherous route". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuances you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a dangerous path" in formal writing?

Yes, "a dangerous path" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing serious risks or consequences. However, consider the tone and audience to ensure it aligns with the overall message.

What's the difference between "a dangerous path" and "a slippery slope"?

"A dangerous path" generally refers to a course of action with identifiable risks. "A slippery slope" suggests that an initial action will inevitably lead to a series of increasingly negative consequences.