a real path

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real path" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an actual, tangible route or course of action, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "In order to achieve your goals, you need to find a real path that aligns with your values and aspirations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Only when this becomes the focus of the city's efforts will families find a real path out of shelter.

The New York Times

"This election holds the possibility of a real path to power," said Alfonso Zárate, a Mexico City political analyst.

The New York Times

This has excited deal lawyers, who don't often get excited, because it creates a real path for a controlling shareholder to acquire a company without having to deal with significant litigation risk.

The New York Times

To some ears, the Northwest Passage still sounds like an old-fashioned geographic fiction, an article of faith for which men died rather than a real path through real waters.

The New York Times

My scenario was illustrative of the problem, rather than a real path.

BBC

Andy Bartholomew of the Naval Academy asked, "How about supporting reforms that allow people a real path to permanent residency, rather than more H1B indentured guest worker visas?" Zuckerberg replied "this group is focused on getting full comprehensive immigration reform passed.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

And with two presidential elections over the next six years to drive up turnout, changing demographics that favor progressives, and the severe consequences of conservative policies taking hold, there is a very real path to victory through 2020.

Huffington Post

And compared to these miniscule chances for promotion, it should be no small surprise that thousands of McDonald's workers now see striking for $15 per hour and a union as the only real path for securing a living wage in their lifetimes.

Huffington Post

He speculated that the pileup has resulted because ambitious stars and filmmakers have given up on the rest of the year, preferring to cram their films into an autumn awards race on the assumption that it is the real path to an audience.

The New York Times

Unfortunately, like so many others, it offers no real path to an alternative after heaping scorn on the system.

The New York Times

"It needs to become an attractive and high-status sector that can attract graduates who can see a real career path … The last thing it needs is more threats".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a real path" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly establishes what the 'path' leads to, such as "a real path to success" or "a real path to recovery".

Common error

Avoid using "a real path" in overly abstract or vague scenarios where the path lacks a clear, discernible direction or outcome. Instead, opt for more specific and descriptive language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real path" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It often acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence, describing a tangible route or a viable course of action. Ludwig AI's examples show it in contexts ranging from immigration reform to career advancement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a real path" is a versatile and frequently used expression that denotes a genuine or practical route to achieving a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its prevalent use in contexts like news and media. When employing the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the destination of the 'path'. While alternatives such as "a genuine route" and "a viable course" exist, the most suitable option depends on the specific context. Remember to avoid vagueness and ensure that the 'path' has a clear direction. The phrase's neutral register allows for its use across diverse writing styles and fields.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine route

Emphasizes authenticity and legitimacy of the route.

a viable course

Focuses on the practicality and feasibility of the course of action.

a practical approach

Highlights the pragmatic and realistic nature of the approach.

a legitimate channel

Implies legality and authorization of the means.

an authentic direction

Stresses the direction's credibility and genuineness.

a concrete method

Underscores the tangibility and solid nature of the method.

a tangible option

Highlights that the option is real and can be dealt with.

a definite alternative

Emphasizes the clear and certain nature of the alternative.

a truthful road

Highlights honesty in the road taken.

a sound strategy

Highlights how solid and reliable the strategy is.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real path" to describe a tangible route or a metaphorical course of action that leads to a specific goal. For example, "Education offers a real path to a better future."

What's a good alternative to "a real path"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a genuine route", "a viable course", or "a practical approach".

Is it better to say "a real path" or "a realistic path"?

While both are correct, "a real path" suggests an existing or tangible route, while "a realistic path" implies a feasible or achievable plan. The best choice depends on the intended meaning.

Can "a real path" be used in scientific writing?

Yes, but it's crucial to define the term in the specific context of your research. For instance, in robotics, "a real path" might refer to the actual trajectory of a robot as opposed to a simulated one.