a shift in direction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shift in direction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a change in strategy, focus, or approach in various contexts, such as business, personal goals, or creative projects. Example: "After reviewing our sales data, we decided it was time for a shift in direction to better meet our customers' needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

So there was without doubt a shift in direction.

The Guardian - Sport

Sunday's show was the first under her command, and it was clearly a shift in direction.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was, however, indicating a shift in direction, at least from the Vatican.

The New York Times

Nonetheless, every now and again a deal comes along that signals a shift in direction for an industry.

The Guardian - Business

Ángel di María and Radamel Falcao have come in, with Danny Welbeck going out, and that, plainly, is a shift in direction.

The Guardian - Sport

Chief executive of Stan, Mike Sneesby says by inserting a female lead the show "represents a shift in direction" from traditional revenge psychological thrillers.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Perhaps we're seeing a shift in that direction, with more focus on the invention, its practical application, and the effects of patents on further discovery.

TechCrunch

As the test mandrel is a cylinder, a shift in one direction will cause a test error in the other direction.

Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering

Yet in other respects he does represent a shift in the direction of American capitalism.

The Economist

[C5.] TV news anchor resigns Citing a shift in editorial direction, a prominent American anchor of Al Jazeera English has quit the 24-hour news channel.

The New York Times

Recent changes in the state pension system – towards an across-the-board, flat-rate payment – are regarded as a shift in the direction of a similar approach.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a shift in direction", ensure the context clearly indicates what the previous direction was and what the new direction entails. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a shift in direction" without specifying what is changing. For example, instead of saying "The company needs a shift in direction", specify "The company needs a shift in direction from aggressive sales tactics to customer-focused service."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shift in direction" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act of changing course or approach, indicating a move away from a previous path.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a shift in direction" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe a change in strategy, focus, or approach. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. The phrase is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary. Related phrases such as "a change of course" and "a change in strategy" can be used as alternatives, depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what is changing to avoid ambiguity. With its widespread usage and clear meaning, mastering "a shift in direction" can enhance your ability to communicate strategic changes effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a change of course

Emphasizes altering the planned path or progression.

a change in strategy

Specifically refers to modifying the methods used to achieve a goal.

a change in focus

Highlights a modification in what is being prioritized or emphasized.

a turnaround

Implies a complete reversal, often to improve a negative situation.

a pivot

Suggests a strategic change in response to new information or opportunities.

a reorientation

Focuses on adjusting the alignment or perspective.

a realignment

Refers to reorganizing or reconfiguring elements for a new purpose.

a departure

Indicates a move away from a previous method or idea.

a new tack

Suggests adopting a different approach or method to deal with a situation.

a sea change

Denotes a substantial and widespread transformation.

FAQs

How can I use "a shift in direction" in a sentence?

You can use "a shift in direction" to indicate a change in strategy, focus, or approach. For example: "The new CEO announced "a shift in direction" towards sustainable practices."

What can I say instead of "a shift in direction"?

You can use alternatives like "a change of course", "a change in strategy", or "a change in focus" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a shift in direction" and "a change in direction"?

"A shift in direction" and "a change in direction" are largely interchangeable. Both phrases indicate that something is moving or progressing in a different way than before. The choice often comes down to stylistic preference.

Is "a shift in direction" formal or informal?

"A shift in direction" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in business, news reporting, and academic writing.