altering course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "altering course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a change in direction or strategy, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "After reviewing the project's progress, the team decided that altering course was necessary to meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Canada Post is altering course but safe passage is not yet assured.

The Economist

"Greeks are not buying the theory that the opposition poses a danger, so now Samaras is altering course".

The Guardian

Mr. Romney's own campaign officials and conservative supporters reject any suggestion of altering course for the general election.

The New York Times

Yet without altering course by a single degree, Bosh has claimed the prize that some said he never could.

The New York Times

And he reiterated that he and his colleagues would want to see "substantial improvement" in the labor market before altering course, even in a modest way.

The New Yorker

The most likely scenario in the years to come is continuing Labour supremacy, with the Lib Dems altering course to pick up seats from a risibly diminished Tory party.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

During the Presidential race, Trump has altered course on Cuba.

The New Yorker

The White House and Congress would be forced to alter course.

The New Yorker

The dogs, however, had sensed our presence and altered course.

The Guardian - Travel

Fossett altered course for Fort Lauderdale, Fla., some 3,000 miles north of his current position.

The New York Times - Sports

Even now, a fleet of destroyers, red flags flapping at the stern, have altered course.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "altering course" when you want to convey a deliberate and significant change in direction or strategy, especially in response to new information or circumstances.

Common error

While "altering course" is widely accepted, avoid using it excessively in very casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "changing direction" or "adjusting our plans" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "altering course" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used to describe the act of changing direction, strategy, or approach. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science & Research

3%

Sports

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "altering course" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a change in direction, strategy, or approach. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and acceptable. It is commonly found in news and media, as well as wiki entries, and is best suited for neutral to professional contexts. While there are many alternatives, such as "changing direction" or "modifying the plan", "altering course" is a strong choice when you want to convey a deliberate and significant change, particularly when responding to new information. When used, avoid overusing it in informal conversations, as simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

changing direction

Emphasizes a shift in the path or trajectory being followed.

modifying the plan

Focuses on adjusting the specific steps or details of a pre-existing plan.

adjusting strategy

Highlights a change in the overall approach or method used to achieve a goal.

revising tactics

Implies a change in the specific actions or techniques employed.

shifting gears

Suggests a transition to a different mode of operation or focus.

making adjustments

Highlights small corrections or refinements to an existing process.

correcting trajectory

Focuses on adjusting the path to reach a target more accurately.

redirecting efforts

Emphasizes moving resources or attention to a different area.

pivoting

A business term indicating a fundamental shift in strategy or business model.

changing tack

Suggests a change in approach, often used in sailing or nautical contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "altering course" in a sentence?

You can use "altering course" to describe a change in strategy or direction. For example, "The company is "altering course" due to the new market trends".

What can I say instead of "altering course"?

You can use alternatives like "changing direction", "modifying the plan", or "adjusting strategy" depending on the context.

Is "altering course" formal or informal?

"Altering course" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but simpler phrases might be preferred in very casual conversations.

When should I use "altering course" over "changing direction"?

Use "altering course" when emphasizing a more deliberate or significant change in strategy, whereas "changing direction" is a more general term for a shift in path.