blaze a trail

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'blaze a trail' is an idiomatic expression that is correctly used in written English.
It is used to refer to a situation in which someone achieves something remarkable or groundbreaking. For example, "The new CEO blazed a trail by successfully restructuring the company's operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

The Dunlop deal could blaze a trail.

The Economist

With cash in hand and new ideas, Britain has a rare chance to blaze a trail.

The Economist

With so many advancements happening across UK campuses HE institutions can blaze a trail, Ceranic concludes.

Independent

Or he could blaze a trail as unique as his first name, remaining in Colorado.

The New York Times

Sadly for Greece, it would need to blaze a trail to repair its finances while also dodging default and devaluation.

The New York Times

So I think there's some correlation between maybe being the eldest and wanting to blaze a trail.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Blazing a trail?

Independent

He blazed a trail.

The New York Times

So much for blazing a trail.

Independent

Mondo wasn't blazing a trail.

The New York Times

Fortunately, other researchers have blazed a trail.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "blaze a trail", consider whether the context emphasizes innovation, leadership, or simply being the first to do something. Tailor your language to match the specific nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "blaze a trail" when simply following existing trends or well-established paths. This phrase is reserved for genuinely novel endeavors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blaze a trail" functions as a verb phrase. It is commonly used to describe the act of pioneering or initiating something new, influencing future directions or actions, Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "blaze a trail" is a commonly used and grammatically correct verb phrase that signifies pioneering or innovating. Ludwig AI confirms its reliability. It appears most frequently in news and media, with a neutral register suitable for a range of contexts. Use this phrase when you want to emphasize the creation of new paths or the initiation of novel endeavors. Be mindful not to use it when simply following existing trends.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pioneer a path

Implies creating a path for others where none existed before, similar to the original phrase, but with a slightly more literal sense of path creation.

break new ground

Focuses on innovation and doing something that has not been done before, emphasizing the novelty aspect.

set a precedent

Highlights the act of establishing a standard or example for future actions, emphasizing the formal nature of the new action.

lead the way

Emphasizes guidance and direction, suggesting that others will follow the lead, focuses on guiding action.

forge ahead

Suggests a strong and determined movement forward, often in the face of challenges, emphasizing the effort required.

initiate a movement

Implies starting a significant change or trend, focusing on the beginning of a broader action.

establish a foothold

Suggests gaining an initial, secure position in a new area or market, emphasizing security.

chart a course

Implies planning and directing a specific route or strategy, highlighting strategic thinking.

open up opportunities

Highlights creating chances and possibilities for oneself or others, focusing on enabling new prospects.

spearhead an effort

Emphasizes taking a leading role in a coordinated endeavor, focusing on active leadership.

FAQs

How can I use "blaze a trail" in a sentence?

You can use "blaze a trail" to describe someone who is doing something new or innovative, such as "The scientist hopes to "blaze a trail" in cancer research".

What does it mean to "blaze a trail"?

To "blaze a trail" means to be the first to do something, especially something that others will follow. It implies innovation and leadership.

What are some synonyms for "blaze a trail"?

Synonyms for "blaze a trail" include "pioneer a path", "break new ground", and "set a precedent".

Is it correct to say "blaze a trail" or should it be "blaze the trail"?

Both phrases can be correct depending on the context. "Blaze a trail" generally means to start something new. "Blaze the trail" often refers to improving or expanding upon an existing path or process.