broad paths

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broad paths" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe wide or spacious routes, either literally (like roads or trails) or metaphorically (like options or choices in a situation). Example: "The park features broad paths that are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

And there are two broad paths.

Harvard Business Review

The herb gardens are huge - great beds of yarrow and comfrey, milk-thistle and marigold, fennel and meadowsweet, with broad paths in between.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The term "trade routes" may summon up visions of broad paths, but thousand-pound yaks can traverse faint, canted trails the width of your outspread hands.

The New Yorker

In Scotland broad paths were built after the Jacobite rebellions of the 18th century, as a way of allowing English soldiers to move quickly round the rugged landscape.

The Economist

For years I'd looked longingly at pictures of the broad paths along this high, undulating ridge, a dramatic nine-mile upheaval in the otherwise placid and gently rolling landscape of Hereford and Worcester in central England.

The New York Times - Travel

There are three broad paths the Brexit process could follow from here, and on none of them does it seem to me that a reflexive commitment to free movement is the best option for Labour.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

On crossing the footbridge, go uphill on the broad path, to a path on the left.

The Guardian - Travel

No people have died — that is a miracle!" The flood's broad path sent farmers scrambling.

The New York Times

Terrain: Well-made and broad path; suitable for bikes although with some short steep ascents.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As the ship approaches Egypt, the "moon's broad path is cut with shadows like phantom ships.

The Guardian - Books

On Thursday, the agency and European regulators announced a broad "path forward" for how to jointly approach cross-border trades.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing literal paths, ensure the adjective accurately reflects the physical width. For metaphorical uses, consider whether "broad" best conveys the scope or range of options.

Common error

Avoid using "broad paths" when more specific terms like "various options" or "multiple strategies" would provide greater clarity. Overusing the phrase in abstract contexts can make your writing sound vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broad paths" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes routes or ways that are wide, either literally or figuratively. As per Ludwig AI's assessment, the phrase is considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "broad paths" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe wide routes or extensive options. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability. Its usage is relatively uncommon, but can be found across various contexts, including news, science, and formal business settings. When using the phrase, be mindful of the specific context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning, and consider alternatives such as "wide routes" or "multiple options" depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wide routes

Focuses on the physical width of a path or road.

spacious trails

Emphasizes the openness and roominess of a path, typically in a natural setting.

extensive routes

Highlights the length and scope of a path or journey.

wide avenues

Suggests a grand and formal path, often in an urban setting.

clear pathways

Emphasizes the clarity and ease of following a route, both literally and figuratively.

established routes

Highlights routes that are well known and commonly used.

major thoroughfares

Refers to main roads or routes that handle significant traffic.

primary courses

Highlights the main directions or procedures to follow.

open roads

Emphasizes the freedom and lack of obstacles in a route.

main arteries

Likens routes to the main circulatory pathways in a body, emphasizing their importance.

FAQs

How can I use "broad paths" in a sentence?

You can use "broad paths" to describe wide physical routes, like "The park has "broad paths" for walking and cycling." It can also metaphorically refer to a wide range of options or strategies.

What are some alternatives to "broad paths"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "wide routes", "spacious trails", or "extensive routes" to describe physical paths. For metaphorical uses, consider "multiple options" or "various strategies".

Is it correct to use "broad paths" in a metaphorical sense?

Yes, "broad paths" can be used metaphorically to refer to a wide range of possibilities or approaches. For instance, "The company is exploring "broad paths" to increase revenue."

What's the difference between "broad paths" and "narrow paths"?

"Broad paths" suggests wide routes or many options, while "narrow paths" implies limited choices or constricted routes. For example, a "broad path" to citizenship vs. a "narrow path".