a path of smoke

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a path of smoke" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a visible trail or line created by smoke, often in a poetic or descriptive context. Example: "As the fire crackled, a path of smoke spiraled into the sky, marking the spot where the flames danced."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

If you have the time, grab a fire extinguisher and create a path of smoke behind you so the shooter will have a harder time pursuing you.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

We theorise that an increase in vacuum rate increases the level of turbulence along the transit path of smoke, resulting in improved smoke mixing, which ultimately delivers a homogeneous test article to the surface of the QCM.

Chemistry Central Journal

They chose a path of healing.

The New York Times

The path we are on is a path of destruction.

The Guardian - Opinion

Trucco decided on a path of reconciliation.

Wikipedia

A path of fire.

Huffington Post

Watch for a "path" of pain.

WikiHow

To cover their advance, Smith's men set fire to the buildings in their path, which created a pall of smoke under cover of which Smith was able to storm and capture the Sheik's palace.

Wikipedia

Little doubt remains about the eventual outcome, but the path from here to the end is shrouded by a pall of smoke as Donald Trump seeks to burn down the house.

Los Angeles Times

The path of the smoke overhead served as his wind indicator.

The New York Times

The city's largest outdoor food market lies directly in the path of the smoke, adding to concerns.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a path of smoke" to create vivid imagery, especially when describing fires, explosions, or other events that generate noticeable smoke trails. It can effectively convey direction and consequence.

Common error

Avoid using "a path of smoke" in highly technical or scientific writing where more precise terminology is appropriate. Instead, opt for terms like "smoke plume trajectory" or "smoke dispersion pattern" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a path of smoke" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples illustrate its role in descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a path of smoke" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to depict the visible trail or direction taken by smoke. According to Ludwig AI, it is suitable for written English, primarily serving to create vivid imagery, especially in descriptive contexts involving fires or explosions. Its usage is relatively rare but consistent across news, wiki, and scientific sources. While the phrase is valid, in more technical scenarios, opting for precise terms like "smoke plume trajectory" would enhance clarity. Alternatives such as "a smoke trail" or "a stream of smoke" can provide subtle nuances to suit specific descriptive needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a smoke trail

Focuses on the trail-like quality of the smoke.

a line of smoke

Emphasizes the linear form of the smoke.

a stream of smoke

Highlights the continuous flow of the smoke.

a course of smoke

Similar to a "path", but suggests a more deliberate direction.

an avenue of smoke

Suggests a wide, defined passage filled with smoke.

a wisp of smoke

Indicates a small, thin amount of smoke.

a passage of smoke

Highlights the idea of smoke moving through a particular area.

a cloud of smoke

Refers to a dense, amorphous mass of smoke.

a trail of haze

Shifts from smoke to a lighter obscuration.

a smoky wake

Implies smoke left behind by a moving object or event.

FAQs

How can I use "a path of smoke" in a sentence?

You can use "a path of smoke" to describe the visible trail left by smoke, often suggesting movement or direction. For example, "The burning building left "a path of smoke" across the sky".

What are some alternatives to "a path of smoke"?

Alternatives include "a smoke trail", "a line of smoke", or "a stream of smoke", depending on the context and the specific imagery you want to create.

Is it correct to say "the path of smoke" instead of "a path of smoke"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "the path of smoke" implies a specific, already identified path, while "a path of smoke" describes a general or newly formed path.

What does "a path of smoke" typically symbolize in literature?

In literature, "a path of smoke" often symbolizes transience, destruction, or the aftermath of a significant event. It can also represent a guide or a consequence, depending on the context.